**Updated** A pitch inspection took place at first light today by a local referee and was passed fit for play.
Yesterday the pitch was mowed and slitted as an extra precaution. This morning there was light drizzle early on which has stopped** Updated**
Newport continue on the road to Wembley on Saturday with a home tie against Bridgwater Town in the First Round Proper of the FA Vase.
Andy Sampson almost has a full squad to choose from, the only exception being Lewis Wright who was sent off in the third minute of last Saturday’s match for a ‘last man’ foul and has a one match ban.
Bridgwater will be strong opponents having won their last three matches scoring ten and conceding none, lifting them to third in the Toolstation Western Premier League. With East Cowes Vics and Cowes both playing on the mainland. a big crowd is expected with Bridgwater bringing a full coach and several cars, please make sure you arrive in plenty of time to get in the ground. It is likely the car park will fill before 2.30pm so if you arrive after this time aim to park on the streets around the ground.
Heavy rain has helped soften the pitch at Beatrice Avenue which has been very firm so far this season. It is likely that a pitch inspection will take place before Bridgwater leave home early on Saturday but the East Cowes pitch is notoriously quick draining and no problems are envisaged.
Saturday is non league day which recognises grass roots football but also supports the Prostate Cancer Charities. We shall be supporting this and the IOW Prostate Cancer Support Group will be in attendance to give advice , raise funds and awareness.
Newport Reserves play at home to Newchurch in The IOW League with a 2.00pm kick off.
The club has obtained some embroidered club baseball caps which we shall start selling at the match on Saturday. They are adjustable in size and cost £10.
