STEVE Blenkinsop will look to repeat his goalscoring exploits when Newtown take on Mid Wales rivals Aberystwyth Town at Latham Park on Saturday (2.30pm.)
Blenkinsop seized his chance with two goals as Newtown beat Carmarthen Town last weekend and the former Llanymynech Rovers junior hopes to form a partnership with on-loan striker Nicky Rushton to fire the Robins up the table.
“I was absolutely delighted to score twice against Carmarthen,” said the 22-year-old. “It was a massive game for both clubs and to help us win was a great feeling.
“I have been patient and waited for the manager to give me a chance and I was determined to make the most of my opportunity.”
Blenkinsop praised strike partner Rushton, who also netted in the Robins’ victory, and hoped to maintain their goalscoring exploits at the expense of Aberystwyth Town.
“Nicky is a class player and I really enjoyed playing alongside him,” added Blenkinsop. “Beating Carmarthen was so crucial when you look at the table and everyone is looking forward to the Aberystwyth Town game now.”
Aberystwyth have been making the headlines for the wrong reasons this season, with their disciplinary record including six red cards already.
The latest dismissal came last Friday when a home draw with title contenders Neath was blighted by the dismissal of former Newtown midfielder Ricky Evans.
Despite the Seasiders disciplinary problems Blenkinsop insisted the Robins will expect another tough challenge.
“Everyone is geared up for the game and there is a tremendous spirit within the squad,” said Blenkinsop. “Everyone gets on well and I think that is reflected by the way we stick together during games.”
Newtown manager Bernard McNally agreed team spirit and belief had helped take the Robins from bottom of the table to the lofty heights of eighth.
“I have been involved in football for a long time and I have never seen a side react so well to conceding goals as I did on Saturday,” said McNally. “It was a tremendous team display.
“The lads deserve every credit for the display but we will not over celebrate as we still have a lot of work to do in coming weeks, starting with Aberystwyth Town, who will be desperate to win on Saturday.
“Perhaps they go into the game with slightly more pressure on them than us because they have dropped into the bottom two for the first time, but we are under no illusions as to the size of the task, particularly after we lost 4-1 in the reverse fixture.”
Max Penk is likely to be added to the squad with the on-loan Wrexham defender filling the void left by Lee Hartshorn, who has left the club due to work commitments.