"Newport's loss is definitely Cheltenham Town's gain" - Verdict on new Robins signing Scot Bennett

Journalist Andrew Penman reported on Newport County AFC throughout new Cheltenham Town signing Scot Bennett's time at Rodney Parade, both for the South Wales Argus and as a freelance reporter...

How would you describe Scot Bennett as a player and character?

Scot has been Mr Dependable on and off the pitch ever since he arrived at the club back in 2015. Although he’s maybe not so keen on some of the duties that come with the captaincy, he’s a leader on the field with or without the armband and almost always produces a 7/10 or 8/10 performance. He’s a popular teammate and he’s always willing to front up to the media after a disappointing result.

Is he more comfortable in defence or midfield, or equally adept in both roles?

He’s equally reliable in either position. I think he prefers to play in midfield, where he is adept at winning back possession and nearly always finding a team-mate – often after a neat turn or impressive flash of skilful close control. He scored 12 goals in 367 appearances for the Exiles but hasn’t found the net since August 2022 so don’t expect too many goals. And, with time not on his side at 33, he may play more often in defence where he is comfortable in the middle of a back three bringing the ball out and looking to start attacks.

Were you surprised to see him leave Newport after eight seasons?

I think everyone was very surprised to see Scot depart after so long at the club. He had stated his desire to finish his career at Rodney Parade and manager Graham Coughlan was also keen to keep him. It came down to the contract on offer from new owner Huw Jenkins, which Scot felt he simply couldn’t accept and therefore had to reluctantly look elsewhere. It hasn’t gone down well with County fans and their loss is definitely Cheltenham’s gain.

He played in so many big games/achievements for County. Does anything stand out in terms of his own performance/contribution?

He has been an integral part of a really special period for the club – from the great escape in 2017 to two play-off finals in 2019 and 2021, as well as several famous cup runs, culminating in box office clashes with Tottenham, Manchester City and Manchester United. He's so consistent that it’s hard to pick out specific moments where he’s stood out, but he was particularly good at the crunch end of the 2018/19 season. Scot scored a crucial winner against Lincoln in the run-in, but it was a near miss that sticks in the mind – a piledriver that left the crossbar rocking in a thrilling play-off semi-final second leg at Mansfield Town, which County eventually won on penalties. That was one of the best 0-0 draws I’ve ever covered and Scot was, as ever, in the thick of the action and bringing out the best in those around him.

Body*