History of Newport RFC :: 1874

"This afternoon we welcome the players, officials and supporters of Newport RFC for this 4th round of the Welsh Rugby Union SWALEC Cup at Sardis Road."

"After the disappointment we experienced last season ironically at Rodney Parade, everyone at the club is hoping we will go 'two' better this season, into the final and cup winners! But first we have to overcome the black and ambers, a stern challenge with rugby history on their side. In our two previous encounters, both at Rodney Parade in 1978 and 1990 they were victors, 9 points to 7 points and 12 points to 3 points. This afternoon our lads will be out to prove third time lucky! As a matter of interest all our cup results since the start of the competition in 1971 are included on page 14. The list presents a real trip down a rugby memory lane; and very useful statistics for a quiz and a good way to win some money."

"News on the injury front shows a return to training by Gavin Jones and Jason Lewis, but Ceri Thomas has been joined on the unfit list by lock Mark Rowley. It is hoped, and anticipated that all the squad will be available for the league match at Cardiff on Thursday the 22nd December, kick off 7.15p.m. Tickets will be on sale at the club until 11pm Monday, 19th December - ground only at £5, OAP/Juniors £2.50p."

"Members will have been concerned to read in the press criticism of alleged unsporting behaviour by Pontypridd supporters at the recent Treorchy match. We have always prided ourselves on the standards of behaviour of Pontypridd supporters at both home and away games. Sometimes, however, non-rugby elements tag along and spoil our reputation, as well as the enjoyment of the majority. Let us continue to support our team, but let's do it in style. If you see/hear any persons misbehaving at Sardis Road, please do not hesitate to notify the stewards or the police. Above all, do not try to act on your own. True or false, we want to stop these criticisms at source. Futhermore, any member/supporter found to be misbehaving will be severely dealt with by the committee, even to the point of loss of membership/exclusion from the ground for the remainder of the season."

"Members will be very disappointed by the decision of the International Rugby Board concerning the eligibility of Dale Mclntosh being available for Wales. You can rest assured that the committee will be 'testing' this decision to the full when we eventually receive written confirmation of the decision, which up until now has reached us via the media!"

"This afternoon we are pleased to welcome as the match sponsor The Market Tavern, Pontypridd and we thank Mr. David John for his continued support. We trust David and his guests have an enjoyable afternoon."

"We are also very grateful to the match ball sponsors:- St. Michael's Sports Association, Mr. Con McCarthy; The Lamb and Flag, Glynneath, Mr. Alan Jarman; Hooper and Rose, Pontypridd, Mr. Mark Newbury."

"Today's lucky programme prize is £10. and the winner can collect from Mr. Keith Lewis after the game at the Supporters Shop. There is also a second programme prize of a gents Rotary watch, kindly donated by Mr. Mark Newbury of Hooper and Rose, Pontypridd. The winner can also collect this from Keith Lewis after the match."

"The players draw, the Lucky Box 13 stands at £1,000 this week. So why not have a go, it may not be the National Lottery, but its more fun. Tickets are available to members in the clubhouse."

"The club is looking to increase the number of 'paid' stewards for duty at home league, cup and representative' matches. Applications are invited from male/female persons, 18 years and over and should be directed to the Club Hon. Secretary as soon as possible."

"Finally from all of our players, officials and committee, a very Merry Christmas to all our members and supporters, match sponsors, match ball sponsors and advertisers. C.G.P.T."

In keeping with the festive season, Newport produced a display of pantomime proportions as Pontypridd gave a graphic example as to the gulf between the top and bottom of division one. Newport never looked like scoring a point, never had one shot at goal during the entire 80 minutes and rarely got out of their own half such was the stranglehold Pontypridd had on them. When it called for all hands to the pump in defence Newport were simply found wanting such was the performance that referee Huw Wilson blew up early in sympathy. Often Pontypridd players were queueing up three deep to cross the visitors line.