TEN trialists in the starting line-up for Newport County AFC’s first friendly of pre-season tells you everything about boss Michael Flynn’s approach for tonight’s 1-1 draw at Undy AFC.

Defender Jamie Turley, who began the match as Exiles skipper, was the only name in the visitors’ XI to make it onto the team sheet handed out before kick-off.

Keeper James Bittner and a few academy youngsters featured on the bench but the majority of the matchday squad was composed of players on trial out to impress Flynn.

A couple of those hoping to show off their skills were identified, including striker Kaid Mohamed, who had taken part in the same fixture at the Causeway last summer.

He had the best chance of the first half when he went clean through on goal but Undy’s keeper saved from point-blank range.

There was also a place in the starting XI for former County midfielder Ben Swallow, released by the club in May 2013, just after promotion back to the Football League had been secured.

Last seen at Havant & Waterlooville, as well as a loan spell with Margate, the Welshman showed some nice touches in a goalless opening 45 minutes.

Ex-Cardiff City youth star Jamie Bird was another midfielder on show for County, and he broke the deadlock on 47 minutes with a cheeky free-kick.

Spotting that the Undy keeper was not covering his near post, Bird went direct for goal from out wide to make it 1-0.

However, County’s lead didn’t last long and they conceded via a very familiar route – the penalty spot.

Undy left-back Nathan Wood stepped up to dispatch the spot-kick after the County gloveman had been penalised.

The visitors enjoyed plenty of possession in the second half but Welsh League Division One outfit Undy, with former Exiles man Cortez Belle at the back, defended resolutely.

While the starting full-backs for County both did well and the substitutes got their opportunity, it was your normal run-of-the-mill friendly fare.

There’s a good chance Flynn will go for more of the first-team squad on Saturday when a trip to Swindon Supermarine awaits the League Two side.