From the match programme:-
"NOTES."
"Newport entertain the Wasps at Rodney Parade this afternoon, and the London Club has scant respect for reputations. Although they have only appeared on the Fixture Lists of the leading Welsh sides since the War, they created something of a sensation by defeating Newport at The Athletic Grounds on September 17th, 1949, by 11 points to 3. Although this has been their sole success, they came very near to victory the previous season, Newport only winning the match in London by 19 points to 17. A fortnight ago Cardiff - having soundly defeated Newport the previous Saturday - went down to the Wasps at Sedbury, and this result, again, has certainly quickened the interest in to-day's match."
"At the time of going to press, there are doubts as to the fitness of two or three Newport players, but the team selected is unchanged from that which defeated Leicester last Saturday. Ken Jones, who had a thorough test in that game, will make his first home appearance of the season."
"Newport have won 6, lost 1 and drawn 1 of their 8 matches played to date. Ben Edwards, in tremendous kicking form this season, has already registered 55 of the 130 points scored, with 9 penalty goals and 14 conversions, while in try-scoring John Lane is well ahead with 10 tries."
"A prominent critic has stated that he will reserve judgment on the South African Tourists until their second appearance in Wales, which will be for a single game only - against the combined Neath and Aberavon teams at Aberavon on November 17th. Certainly it should be an ideal stage of the Tour to decide how the Springboks have welded and settled down to our conditions, and in the meantime they must be greatly relieved to take their first leave of Wales without defeat. What a great 'fillup' to the game these Colonial Tours give!"
"SUPPORTERS' CLUB NEWS."
"To-day, with the visit of the Wasps, we hope to renew the friendships that we have made during the last few years. I think that, of all our English opponents, the London Wasps are the most popular."
"Who can readily forget our recent memorable 'Battle of the Flag' matches, now thanks to the sporting generosity of our visitors changed to the 'Battle of the Wasp?" "
"This is indeed a beautiful trophy and we do not intend to part with it without a struggle. So look out Wasps! We intened to avenge our Welsh friends at Cardiff and draw your sting, but win or lose we shall be in London to visit you at Sudbury, on our Annual Outing, and know by past experience that you will give us a real welcome."
"On Saturday next we are running coaches to Abertillery Park, and we welcome all the support you can give. Details of the trip will be announced over the Pubic Address System and we ask you to book your seats to-day at the Bowls' Pavilion, and give us the best possible time to make adequate arrangements for coaches. If you leave it later you may be disappointed."
"In some respects we were sorry that Cardiff did not beat the visiting Springboks after such an inspiring performance, but the way is being slowly cleared for Newport to have the opportunity and honour of obtaining a pair of heads."
"What a game to look forward to - World Overseas Champions versus Undisputed British Champions, and for full measure - The Boot versus The Boot and Half."
"P.S. - Don't forget to book your seat to the Wasps and on the Devon Tour. Weekly payments taken."