Newport must bounce back at Gillingham - Jardim

Head coach Nelson Jardim says Newport County must produce a response when they travel to Gillingham on Tuesday.

The Exiles suffered a painful 3-0 loss to Chesterfield at Rodney Parade last Friday, their third successive defeat.

It is now 24 goals conceded in 12 league games this season for Newport, who are 15th in League Two and have the joint worst defensive record in the division.

Jardim has highlighted the importance of responding after Chesterfield when his side face Gillingham.

"We need a response. We knew this month would be difficult, we've played tough opposition but the boys have shown character," he said.

"Gillingham will be a huge challenge. We need to do better away from home - I know that.

"When we’ve needed to bounce back we’ve found a way, and that’s what we need to do again."

Gillingham are sixth in the table despite being in poor form themselves, having suffered a fourth straight defeat at Bradford City over the weekend.

Jardim says Newport can take some confidence from an improved second-half performance against Chesterfield.

"We showed character and intensity," he said.

"If we take that into Tuesday, I’m confident that we will compete."