The FA Cup prides itself on the unpredictability of matches and non-league sides often taking Premier League big boys to the brink. There was no way the January 2024 FA Cup fourth-round tie in which League Two Newport County vs Man United timeline would have gone any differently, providing an entertaining affair at Rodney Parade. Manchester United ran out 4-2 winners in the end, but it was anything but routine. So, without further ado, we present the timeline and key moments that fashioned this thrilling contest.
Pre-Match Build-Up
Newport County vs Man United timeline: Famous for their cup upsets at this level, entertained Manchester United as one of the standout ties. It was a “dream come true” for Newport. It was the dream occasion they had been hoping for. They had an opportunity to beat one of the world’s biggest clubs in front of a 9,000-plus crowd. While United, with new manager Erik ten Hag at the helm, looked to spare their own blushes amidst a mixed campaign.
Newport were hoping to take advantage of Manchester United’s recent injuries and lacklustre form. United made a few changes in their lineup. Young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo started among veteran stars like Bruno Fernandes and Antony. This ensured a strong performance for the visitors on the evening.
First Half: United Out Quickly but Newport Have a Decent Amount of Fight
7th minute — Bruno Fernandes: Manchester United started strong. United took the lead on 31 minutes. Fernandes initiated and completed this move. Antony made a brilliant pass to put Fernandes through. Luke Shaw also played a key role in the build-up. He got the ball out wide. Then, he assisted the Portugal international. The player fired home with his right foot.
13th Minute – Kobbie Mainoo (1st Senior Goal for United): This was followed by a goal from Kobbie Mainoo as he made his debut Earthquakes start), taking the young midfielder just six minutes to score his first senior.-contributed tally. He was done with that goal and at 2-0 United looked set for an easy win.
36th minute – Bryn Morris (Newport) 1-3: Newport County can still pack a punch when needed. Bryn Morris scored with a spectacular long-range strike. The ball took a deflection off United defender Lisandro Martínez. The goal lifted Newport fans and gave the home team hope before the half-time break.
Part Two: Newport Stage Brave Fightback
47th minute — Will Evans with the equalizer. It was two minutes into the second half. Newport County had outdone Manchester United. Late in the game, Will Evans scored by turning in Adam Lewis’s cross. He reached his 19th goal of this extraordinary first season as a professional. This goal rocked the United camp as Newport clawed back to 2-2.
Newport County’s belief grew at this stage and Man Utd looked rattled. Newport was feeding off this relentless energy and a cup set looked increasingly real.
Manchester United’s Response
United struck back in the 68th minute as Brazilian winger Antony made it 2-1 for his side. As the game wore on, the chances kept falling. In the end, after near misses, Antony scored. This put United back in front at 3-2. His goal gave United some vital breathing space.
90+4′ – Rasmus Højlund Ensures Victory: Newport kept up their search for another equaliser. In stoppage time, Rasmus Højlund put the game beyond doubt. United advance to the next round. A close-range finish further confirmed it 4-2 without the heroics of Newport.
Analysis of Key Players
Bruno Fernandes: The little playmaker lead Man Utd to good victories. United’s opening goal was scored by the 22-year-old. His leadership, composure, and quality helped United regain momentum. A pass was crucial when Newport threatened to turn the match on its head. The preparation went beyond even a player as enthusiastic as Intriedi.
Antony 6: Wasted a few opportunities. It must be seen as a bit of a redemption arc to get the goal. This goal turned the tide in United’s favour. His inventiveness down either flank asking the Newport defence numerous questions.
Will Evans and Bryn Morris (Newport County): Both Evans and Morris played major parts in Newport’s turnaround. Evans in particular was one of the best on the field. He scored his equalising goal. He also worked tirelessly to put pressure on the Southend defenders and lead from the front.
Defensive shape of Newport: Manager, Graham Coughlan set up the home team in a defensive 5–3–2 formation. They aimed to bank on their defence. They planned to hit Manchester United on the break as much as possible. It was an approach that served them well for most of the game. They excelled even more in the second half when they struck to bring their opposition level.
Post-Match Reactions
Erik ten Hag spoke after the match. He said his team are “heavily relieved” to not crash out of the FA Cup. They avoided “possible embarrassment”. He recognized Newport had given it everything. He was pleased to see his team react positively after surrendering a two-goal lead.
Newport manager Graham Coughlan hailed his side’s response, saying they had left nothing on the pitch. Even in defeat, this will become one of Newport’s most memorable matches in recent history.
Looking Ahead
The win guarantees Manchester United a spot in the fifth round. They will meet either Bristol City or Nottingham Forest. Ten Hag wants to win the FA Cup. United aims to claim some silverware before the end of a challenging season.
The victory wasn’t to be. That’ll be of little consequence for Newport County. They will instead get a huge source of pride. It will boost their confidence as they continue their League Two campaign. They didn’t give up during the whole match against a Premier League giant. That perseverance will do wonders for their hopes going forward.
Conclusion
It was a January 2024 FA Cup meeting between Newport county vs Man United Timeline that provided an example of the magic of the competition. Newport County, two divisions under Manchester United, challenged the Premier League side. It will be remembered as a superb cup tie. The match included exhilarating attacking play and brave defensive efforts from both sides. In the end United’s stars showed their worth but Newport will not be forgotten in FA Cup folklore anytime soon.
