Manager Aidy Boothroyd admitted after the game that his side are still a long way from where they need to be but is confident that, with a better squad than last season, the Cobblers will gradually improve over the marathon course of a 46-game League Two campaign.
The hectic nature of the opening week can often create a false impression of which teams will be challenging at the end of the season and Boothroyd is experienced enough to remain calm despite some nervy moments in victory against Newport.
Opposite number Justin Edinburgh felt his men were unlucky in defeat at Sixfields having pushed their hosts onto the back foot for much of the game.