Will Evans celebrated his first appearance in a Mansfield Town shirt with a goal after issuing heartfelt message of thanks to Newport County and their fans.
Former Bala Town striker Evans joined the League One Stags on a two-year deal on Tuesday in a deal worth more than £200,000.
Within hours of putting pen to paper, Evans netted in a half-hour appearance against Matlock Town in a pre-season friendly which Mansfield won 3-0.
Llangedwyn-born Evans also issued a message of thanks to the Newport fans after what he described as the “best two years”.
The Wales C striker, who scored 25 goals last season, said: “I would like to say a massive thank you to the fans.
“From turning out at Rodney Parade week in, week out to the long away trips across the country. It really didn’t go unseen.
“It was a decision which wasn’t made lightly, as I’ve created memories that will live with me forever.
“You accepted me from game one and all the way through to the end of last season, I truly mean it when I say you hold a special place in my heart.”
Evans, who scored an FA Cup goal against eventual winners Manchester United last January, thanked his former teammates for helping to create “some of the greatest moments” of his life.
He said: “I genuinely couldn’t have done it without you. I have met people within the club who I’ll class as friends for life.
“The club gave me an opportunity two years ago and I can easily say it’s been the best two years. For now it’s time to say goodbye, to undertake a new challenge, one that I personally couldn’t turn down.
“I gave everything for Newport County and I hope you felt I did as well.
“I wish nothing but success for the club in the upcoming season and the forthcoming years.”
Newport kick off their League Two campaign away to Cheltenham Town on Saturday.
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