First-half goals from Matt Baker and Kyle Hudlin secured Newport a much-needed 2-0 win at out-of-sorts Gillingham.

The Exiles stopped a three-game losing run as they inflicted the hosts’ fifth straight league defeat.

Jayden Clarke was frustrated as his low effort was kept out by Nick Townsend after he slipped in behind the visitors’ defence early on.

Defender Baker broke the deadlock with his third goal of the season as he emphatically volleyed home Anthony Glennon’s fine free-kick.

Huddersfield loanee Hudlin hit his third goal in five games as he fired Bobby Kamwa’s early cross into the far corner in the 33rd minute.

Mark Bonner’s side flew out of the blocks as Conor Masterson and Clarke saw strikes blocked by the resolute visitors.

Onrushing County stopper Townsend produced a great save to keep out Marcus Wyllie on the hour mark.

Euan Williams was the latest to be denied by a smart save from Townsend with 20 minutes to go as County clinched a welcome three points.