Stevenage boss Dino Maamria is expecting a tough match at Newport County as his first-team squad aim to consolidate their early season form ahead of a longed-for promotion push.

The Comet: Michael Timlin of Stevenage takes the camera of club photographer Jim Steele during celebrations of their third goal in the League Two game between Stevenage FC v Colchester United at the Lamex Stadium, Stevenage, Hertfordshire. Picture: DANNY LOOMichael Timlin of Stevenage takes the camera of club photographer Jim Steele during celebrations of their third goal in the League Two game between Stevenage FC v Colchester United at the Lamex Stadium, Stevenage, Hertfordshire. Picture: DANNY LOO (Image: ©2018 Danny Loo Photography - all rights reserved)

With Boro handily placed in fifth spot having won three of their last five league matches, including an excellent 3-1 victory over Colchester last Saturday, the charismatic 46-year-old is turning his attention to the all-important League Two match at Rodney Parade in south Wales on Saturday.

The former Nuneaton boss picked up a sterling 1-0 victory against the Exiles in April and will be aiming to do the same against Mike Flynn’s County.

However, it will be a tough ask given that Newport are two places above Boro in third. If you factor in injuries to Alex Revell and Kurtis Guthrie who are unlikely to feature for the trip across the Severn Bridge, the match looks a tough one.

Speaking to CometSport Maamria said: “I know it’s going to be a tough game. But we’ll be ready for it.

“Alex and Kurtis are doubtful for Newport. It is what it is. We will go to Newport with the strongest team we can in an attempt to win the game.

“We came back from a goal down against Colchester. We showed resilience [in the 3-3 draw at Notts County]. That’s what my first-team squad does. That shows we have character. That’s the club we are.

“What is important is Saturday. The defeat against Charlton on Saturday won’t affect our momentum. Absolutely not.”

The charismatic Tunisian saved a word of praise for his club’s loyal travelling fans.

With three long trips to the west country in the opening two months of the season under under their belt at Forest Green Rovers, Yeovil and Exeter City not to mention a visit to Carlisle United Maamria is well aware of the dedication and passion of Boro fans.

He added: “It’s expensive to travel up and down the country following us and myself and all the players really appreciate their support.

“We’ll be doing our best to reward them on Saturday.”

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