From the match programme (gate receipts for this game were £1,100):-
"Newport last recorded victory over Cardiff on March 2nd, 1946, when, in the last of that season's contests, in which honours were shared, they won by 6 points to 3. In the two following seasons honours have gone entirely to Cardiff with the exception of one drawn game at Newport in the 1946-7 season. Such facts are enough to illustrate this post-war period of ascendancy which Cardiff have enjoyed and exploited so well in meetings between these great rivals. Their success has not always been easily gained - indeed, many of the matches of recent years have produced much splendidly contested, exciting football - and in the second meeting at Newport last season, for instance, it looked as if Newport must lower the colours of a side right in victorious stride, but in the final minutes merited success went to Cardiff."
"And so we come to the first clash of a new season, and how can we assess, from the Newport angle, the chances of a reversal of fortunes which will lead to an eagerly sought victory, long awaited by our Supporters? Of recent years it is hardly true to state that the outcome of Newport and Cardiff matches has been unpredictable (Cardiff's ascendancy in Welsh Rugby - and English, too, for that matter - has been too marked for that). But what of this season? Well, with one month gone, there has been time, presumably, for both teams to have settled down, and time certainly for strengths and weaknesses to have been revealed. For Newport's part, after a most promising opening to the season, their unbeaten record was rather disappointingly surrendered at Swansea last Saturday. Cardiff having survived an early shock in their opening game at Coventry, got well into last season's stride with their recent big victory over Neath. And of the teams themselves - well, Hadyn Tanner is still in command of nearly all last year's talented company, while Hedley Rowland leads a Newport side of tried and seasoned performers with the welcome inclusion of Ken Jones on the wing for the first time this season."
"And if any comparison is sought between last season's personnel and this, one can point to the fact that whereas Cardiff's Maldwyn James - the Welsh hooker of last year - has retired, Newport's "Bunner" Travers - of earlier Welsh fame - is back again to hook and lead the pack. Is there a clue here which can lead to a reversal of fortunes this afternoon?"