NEWENT Town Development produced an impressive comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Fairford Town Reserves, earning a crucial three points away from home against the reigning champions.
Despite a difficult season, which has seen the squad undergo a full rebuild, the Young Daffs have shown significant improvement in recent weeks.
After battling to draws against Pershore Town Development and Bishops Cleeve Development, they arrived at the SEM Stadium full of determination—and their efforts were rewarded with a hard-earned win.
The hosts started brightly and took the lead after 14 minutes when Jack Byrne reacted quickest to a rebound following a free kick.
Fairford looked to build on their advantage, but Newent’s defence held firm, and they gradually grew into the game.
The attacking threat of Beyi and Whitehouse caused problems out wide, while Ross Allard’s movement in midfield helped drive the visitors forward.
The second half saw Newent take control, and their pressure finally paid off in the 65th minute. A well-delivered corner from Crampton found Harrison Creed, who rose highest to power a header into the roof of the net, bringing the scores level.
With both sides pushing for a winner, Newent’s defence stood strong, while Corey Weir made key saves to keep Fairford at bay.
As the game neared its conclusion, substitute Mutsotso injected fresh energy into the Daffs' attack.
The visitors found their moment five minutes from time when Creed turned provider, setting up Harrison Cadd, who fired a precise finish into the bottom corner to complete the comeback.
Fairford pressed for a late equaliser and came close in the dying moments, but the post denied them, and Blakesley was on hand to clear the danger. Newent saw out the final minutes to secure a deserved victory, extending their unbeaten run in 2025 to three matches.