New-look Newport earn much-needed win against Hartlepool
Newport secured their first Sky Bet League Two win in 10 games with a comfortable 3-1 home victory against Hartlepool.
Former Cardiff and Wolves manager Dave Jones was taking charge of Pools for the first time, but goals from Ryan Bird, Aaron Williams and Dan Butler quashed any hopes of a dream return to South Wales.
The Exiles were in control from the off with Bird, signed from Eastleigh, putting the hosts ahead in the 15th minute after leaping highest in the box to nod in Craig Reid's corner kick.
Hartlepool rarely tested Joe Day in the home net as Newport continued to cause problems, with Williams again going close before the break.
But the former Peterborough striker bagged his first goal for the club in the 56th minute when he was on hand to head in at the back post after an aerial goalmouth scramble.
Butler capped off a memorable day for Graham Westley's new-look side when his 20-yard volley eluded goalkeeper Adam Bartlett before Padraig Amond snatched a late consolation for the visitors.
Source : PA
Source: PA