"CLUB NOTES"
"Following the recent fall off in form and the heavy defeats against the Barbarians and the International XV, supporters who travelled to Gloucester last Wednesday night must have been delighted with the form of the team although they eventually lost 15 points to 14 points. The brand of rugby produced was in keeping with true Newport fashion and must have given coach John Ryan a great deal of heart for the future."
"A player who made his debut for the 1st. XV was No. 8 Jeff Squires after an outstanding game for the United in their 37-0 victory over Trinant. A student at St. Lukes College, Exeter, he brought our representation from this West Country Rugby Academy up to four, the others being, Gerry Fuller, David Burcher and Steve Willis. He has played regularly for Devon in the County Championship this season and should add strength to our back row positions for the future. Another player who must be looking forward to the future is Richard Taylor who has been gaining experience with the United this season, and his form against Gloucester United during Wednesday's 15-13 victory, shows that he has all the attributes to make a top class forward. This afternoon he is certain to impress with his speed around the field. With our casualty list growing each week it must be very encouraging for the selectors to see these young players displaying such promise."
"The Newport Club were indebted to Carwyn James and Nick Carter for their great efforts in getting together the International XV last Saturday, to celebrate the actual Centenary date of the club. The standard of rugby displayed by both teams was a credit to the occasion and rugby football and with the game being shown throughout a wide television net work the club's prestige must have been enhanced."
"It was hoped to announce the winner of the competition to select the 'Best Post War Newport Team' in this programme but although the panel have selected their team it has been impossible to check all the entries submitted before going to press, so the team and the winner will be announced in the final programme of the season ie. Swansea on Monday 28th April."
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"Once again it is our pleasure to welcome our 'Black and White' friends from Cross Keys to Rodney Parade. Over a great many years the ties between our clubs have been strong with players moving in opposite directions to the benefit of each club. Cross Keys will probably argue that their contribution to Newport's history and success has been greater than any other Gwent club, and when you look at such names as Ron Herrera, Haydn Thomas, Bryn Williams, John Herrera, Jack Hancock, Jack Hurrell, Stuart Watkins, Brian Price, John Uzzell and John Anthony to mention only a few, it is understandable Newport supporters argue that former'Black and Amber' players have also given great service at Pandy Park, names that immediately spring to mind are Peter Davies, Ken Sargent, Dick Shepherd and Dan Bowen while in the present team are Geoff Hughes, Mike Hughes and Gareth Williams."
"During the pre-war era Cross Keys were a household name in the rugby world, with names like Steve Harris, 'Docker' Windmill, 'Lornza' Bowdler and Russell Taylor being legends. Although never reaching those heights since 1945, they have still contributed a great deal to the game. The present team under captain Billy James have achieved many outstanding results, the one that obviously takes pride of place was the victory over Aberavon that deprived the 'Wizards' of their unbeaten record."
"When Newport visited Pandy Park earlier in the season they had to fight extremely hard to achieve victory. It was the 'Black and Amber' forward power that won the day and the victory was achieved at a cost, for in the final minutes of the game Del Haines, himself a former Cross Keys player received an injury which has put his rugby future in great doubt. The injury was a pure accident and one of the hazards of playing the game."
"It was pleasing to read of the selection of Brian Anthony for the W.R.U. Presidents XV, his contribution to rugby football has been enormous and he has given a great deal of pleasure to thousands of people who watch the game. Although now in the veteran stage (sorry Brian!) he is still giving great service to the club where he first started, both on and off the field his coaching has certainly helped the club re-establish themselves."
"A few weeks ago the club played hosts to the 'New Brighton Club' from New Zealand and enjoyed a fine victory. They hope to pay a visit to New Zealand in a few years time and are certain to be very welcome guests. They will always have a warm welcome at Rodney Parade and lets hope the game this afternoon is as exciting as those in the past."