AMID major problems behind the scenes over their groundshare agreement with Ryde Saints, Newport are flying high while East Cowes Vics are struggling in Division 1 of the Wessex League — cold facts ahead of another big derby clash between these two old rivals tomorrow (Monday).
But derbies can be great levellers .... although recent results in this fixture have seen Port come out comfortably on top.
This season, Newport have been scoring goals by the hatful, while Vics of late have one of the division’s leakiest defences — another cold fact.
Judging by Saturday’s results, which saw Vics suffer their worst result of the season, 7-1 at Andover Town, and Newport climb into second with a 1-0 win over Petersfield Town, it doesn’t bode well for Vics — even with home advantage.
Vics boss Richie Woodburn was crestfallen after a defeat he described as embarrassing, but after chatting to him about the Andover game, it did not take him long for the flicker of a spark to return as he looked ahead to the derby.
“Heading into the Christmas derby we’re chalk and cheese. Unfortunately, we’re the chalk with our recent results, which have been really demoralising,” said Richie.
“Newport are in great form and we’re going into it off the back of four defeats.
“I’m hoping this game will kick-start us — but I need to see winners out there.”
Newport’s co-managers Steve Brougham and Stewart Sheppard believe their side deserves to be where they are in the table after an excellent first half to their promotion-seeking campaign.
But Steve, a formerVics boss with a soft spot for the club, will not be taking victory for granted.
One thing the trio have in common is they have both seen form not count for much in an Island derby.
Steve said: “A local derby can always be tricky, regardless of league positions, so we want to go into the Vics game in the right manner.
“Vics will rally against us and it could be a tight game.
“Our concern is how we play on the day. We need to win as many games as we can to stay in the top five — that’s our aim.”
Richie joked he has been like the Grinch who stole Christmas after Saturday’s hammering.
“What I will be demanding is that we compete and don’t hand Newport the game — and to make them earn it,” adds Richie.
“For us it’s a bit of a cup final — a free hit. Can we get a bit of local pride back? I need a performance, the club needs a performance and so do the lads.
“The smart money will be on Newport winning. They’re at the top and we’re down near the bottom.
“What I don’t want is for Newport to lay siege to us and we get a spanking like we did on Saturday. I know for a fact the lads won’t want that to happen again.
“Who knows what to expect. That’s the beauty of football.”
Newport go into the game with a strong squad, while Vics will be without skipper Liam Newbold and fellow defender Ollie West, but welcome back Brandon Hayward.
“What I want is for people to see a good, competitive game and the lads giving Newport as good as we get. That’s not much to ask for at Christmas, is it?”
Kick-off at Beatrice Avenue at 2pm.
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