There is no difference between the new and thread title link... both send you to the first post you didn't read yet... it is the better... go to OP will happen if you don't read any post in this thread.
I like the "new" it is informative... I want a "quote" too in purple for example.
The second row is for the custom icon you choose for the thread... it is not working in front page... works in the others places... fix needed.
works enough for me. kill that ugly "new" tag. shot it in the head.