Not sure what GABP lacks. But it definitely lacks a wow factor that you get when walking into other parks that were built along the same time frame - from the ones I have been to - PAC BELL and Minute Maid for example.. GABP is just average at best by comparison..
for me - with ranking best to worst for the ones I have been to:
1) Pac Bell
2) Wrigley
3) Old Yankee
4) Minute Maid
5) Dodger
6) Progressive
7) Kauffman
8) CoAmerica
9) Ballpark in Arlington
10) GABP
11) Astrodome
12) Candlestick
13) Arlington Stadium
14) Memorial Stadium
15) Riverfront
Not necessarily anything about Code - but if I have a team that much bigger and faster in Newport, I'm probably running a few more sets working for higher percentage shots instead of settling.. JMO.. Just Saying... But like I said - that's JMO...
I wouldn't necessarily argue Newport is more talented.. But would probably argue quality of coaching probably played more into it than first game jitters. And your also correct if they met again down road the result would be different. Especially with a healthy Donnelly in fold for Brossart.. Newport is fun team to watch.. Good luck on a successful season.