Hayden Mullins' playing career included spells with Crystal Palace and West Ham [Huw Evans Picture Agency] Newport County boss Hayden Mullins praised his players after a dominant opening day victory at home to Rochdale in his first league game in charge. The Exiles ran out 3-0 winners thanks to goals from summer signings Kyle Cameron, Shaquille Gwengwe and Yahya Bamba. County dominated proceedings against a below par Rochdale who did not manage a shot on target despite the visitors having most of the possession. "I saw good moments against Roma and Wimbledon to give me confidence that we could put that performance in," Mullins said. "We know that we need to make our home ground and our home form really positive this season. "The boys deserve massive credit because they went about their jobs really well today." Mullins also praised supporters, who were delighted with what they saw on the pitch from County. "The noise was fantastic, but I think we know, the players know that we've got to give them something to shout about," he added. "We know that and on the pitch we've got to be more aggressive in what we're doing out of possession. We knew if we applied pressure in the right areas we'd get the ball back. "The key thing is what we were doing with it. The noise in here was brilliant. We know we need to give the fans something to feed off, but today they were fantastic." It was a first football league start for Gwengwe and Bamba who both got on the scoresheet to help secure the three points for County. Mullins believes it could be a big confidence booster for both players. "I'm so pleased for the lads who got their goals today. Shaquille and Yahya it will give them such a lift and help them believe in the work that they're doing without the ball," said Mullins. "It's vital that they do it for us, but it's equally vital that they score as well." Next up for the Exiles is a short trip to rivals Bristol Rovers on Saturday, 15 August (12:30 BST).
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