Newport County were in seventh heaven just over a month ago, but their renewed hope has now turned back into despair at the foot of League Two.
Their run of seven matches without defeat between late October and mid-November instilled real hope of moving away from relegation danger, but they have now gone seven matches without a win.
County must return to winning ways quickly and must earn at least some reward against Exeter City at Rodney Parade on New Year’s Eve (3pm).
The Exiles have lost their last five League fixtures, letting a two-goal lead slip in their home defeat against Portsmouth.
County, though, can take positives out of the situation at the bottom even though they are four points adrift.
Manager Graham Westley and his team have a game in hand, while their closest rivals are also in poor form.
Second from bottom Cheltenham Town, who have earned one win in eight league games, and Accrington Stanley, who have suffered seven defeats in eight, are not showing any signs of scrambling to safety right now.
Fellow strugglers Notts County have suffered six consecutive defeats and Hartlepool United’s results have seen them lose five of their last six.
All five are in serious danger is losing their place in the Football League and that gives Newport real hope of avoiding the drop by finishing outside the bottom two.
Westley is intent on strengthening his squad during January, although he will lose Rhys Healey. The striker returns to Cardiff after his loan spell.
“I know exactly how many new players we need,” he says. “It is important we have a good first week in the window, make some changes and give ourselves the best chance of winning games on a consistent basis.
“Football is simple. When a team isn’t functioning, always look at the spine. We are conceding too many, we aren’t scoring enough.
“No player can say they have not been given a fair chance. Everyone has had a chance. I have analysed and assessed what I have.”
New Year’s Eve visitors Exeter are unbeaten in five fixtures, conceding one goal in that run, and are looking strong at the back, particularly in their goalless draw against Yeovil last time out.
County will be without Joss Labadie, who has suffered a knee injury and faces a lengthy spell out of action.
“It’s not a minor knock, we’re talking weeks,” said Westley.
