Notts County continued their push for promotion with a composed 3-1 victory over Newport County at Meadow Lane, with Lucas Ness scoring his first goals for the club in a dominant first-half display.
The Magpies took control early on, dictating possession and setting the tempo against a Newport side that struggled to gain a foothold.
Their bright start was rewarded in the 19th minute when Ness opened the scoring, rising highest to meet a delivery and power home his first goal for the club.
Just four minutes later, the defender struck again to double both his and County’s tally — bringing up his second of the afternoon and capping a memorable moment as he netted his first goals in Notts County colours.
Martin Paterson’s side continued to control proceedings for the remainder of the first half, limiting Newport’s attacking opportunities while looking dangerous going forward.
By the break, Notts County’s two-goal advantage reflected their dominance, both in possession and attacking intent.
Newport emerged with greater urgency after the restart and began to apply pressure higher up the pitch. Their persistence paid off in the 65th minute when Harrison Biggins pulled a goal back, finishing well to give the visitors hope of a comeback.
For a brief spell, the momentum shifted. Notts County were forced onto the back foot as Newport pressed for an equaliser, but the hosts remained composed under pressure, reorganising defensively and gradually regaining control of the game.
As the match entered its closing stages, Newport’s need to chase the game left gaps at the back, and Notts County made them pay. In the 86th minute, substitute Jayden Luker sealed the victory, finishing confidently to restore the two-goal cushion and all but confirm the three points.
It was a professional performance from Notts County, built on a clinical first half and disciplined game management in the second.
Ness’ brace proved decisive, while Luker’s goal ensured there would be no late drama.
The result strengthens County’s position in the promotion race as the season enters its final stretch, with performances like this highlighting their ability to combine attacking threat with defensive resilience.
For Newport County, the defeat leaves them with work to do, despite a spirited second-half that ultimately fell short against a well-organised Notts side.
