The Bristol Mercury of 26th January 1885 carried the following report of this game:-
"FOOTBALL."
"GLOUCESTER V. NEWPORT."
"The annual match between these teams is always looked forward to with keen interest by the lovers of football. It was played on Saturday on the ground of the Newport Athletic Club, in the presence of a large company of spectators. The recent rainfall had made the ground in a wretched condition, and fast play was out of the question. The visitors brought down a strong team. Gloucester started the ball, and in a few minutes play was conducted with spirit in midfield, but within five minutes the visitors were compelled to touch down, and the first point was gained for Newport. It was not long before the visitors were again pressed hard, and the home team were within an ace of scoring a try, when Cadeane, for Gloucester, again touched down. Newport stubbornly contested every inch of ground, and some excellent play was exhibited amongst the forwards. There was a dispute or two, but these being disposed of, some loose scrimmaging took place, out of which Jordan scored a try, which was converted into a goal by R. Gould, amid ringing cheers. When half-time was called the ball was in a central position, and sides were changed with Newport scoring one goal, and three touches down to nil on the part of Gloucester. In the second half of the game the same success followed the Newport team, and although the visitors played with excellent spirit throughout, they were unable to score a point. At the call of time the result stood two goals, a try, and six minor points for Newport; Gloucester, nil."