28th December 1883 saw the Monmouthshire Merlin report this exciting Boxing Day game as follows:-
"- Newport v. Neath.- These teams met to try conclusions on the ground of the former on Boxing Day, the match attracting an immense concourse of spectators. Neath won the toss, and Lyne kicked off for Newport. This was followed by a rush, which settled the game in the Neath 25. Their backs kicked the ball across the ground, and by a little close play worked it over the border into the Newport 25. A good deal of kicking and returning ensued in which Newport seemed to have a slight advantage. Eventually the home forwards dribbled the ball on to the Neath goal line, when the visitors touched down. Soon afterwards the leather was again brought close to the Neath goal line, when it was collared by R. Gould, who obtained a try for Newport. Purdon kicked, but, owing to the difficult angle, failed to make a goal. Neath, after this, kicked off with renewed vigour into the home team's territory. They were repulsed again and again by Newport, each of the goals being constantly in danger. So fast was the play that Neath did not seem to make way much, leaving a large part of the work to their backs. The home team took advantage of every opportunity, and brought play into neutral ground. The Neath forwards drove them back again to their 25, when one of them obtained a free kick, which was converted into a splendid goal, amid loud cheers. Half time was then called. When the ball was kicked off after ends had been changed, both teams played with great vigour. After some exciting play, a scrimmage was formed in the Neath 25, from which the ball got into the hands of A. J. Gould, for Newport, who dropped a splendid goal, amid deafening cheers. This decided the game, the attempts of the Neath men to retrieve their fallen fortunes, and the endeavours of the Newport men to increase their successes being alike unavailing. Newport compelled the visitors to touch-down in self-defence, but no further definite points were scored during the second half, and when time was called the ball was in Neath ground. The score stood - Newport, one goal, one try, and two touches down; Neath, one goal and one touch down."