From the match programme:-
"CLUB NOTES"
"All those supporters who made the journey across 'The Bridge' last Tuesday must have wondered if their journey was really necessary, while watching the first half. But thanks to a superb second half display, particularly the last quarter, the right result was achieved and the first Christmas present received. Skipper David Burcher and Coach John Ryan, deny any collaboration with Max Boyce in working out 'The Incredible Plan'. It is not true that the Black & Ambers plan is to lull the opposition into a false sense of security with a poor first half display, only to explode in the second half. 'Well done boys', let's maintain the high quality of rugby you have produced in the first half of the season in the second half. If this can be achieved everyone at Rodney Parade is confident that honours will be ours at the end of the season."
"Congratulations to David Burcher and Jeff Squire on their selection for the Final Welsh Trial next Saturday. We are confident they will enhance their reputations and do everything possible to make that final step necessary to gain that coveted 'Cap'. Gareth Evans is unlucky in only being named as a replacement, we hope that he has the opportunity of taking the field and showing his ability. The 'Big 5' certainly move in strange and mysterious ways with some of the selections. But everyone at Rodney Parade wishes our representatives well, also all the other Gwent representatives."
"David Burcher plays for the Barbarians tomorrow and it is certain that he will uphold the reputation of all the other Black & Amber men who have played for this illustrious club. He stands down from this afternoons game as does No. 8 Jeff Squire, who is getting married tomorrow. We wish Jeff and his wife all best wishes for the future and hope they remember he has the trial on Saturday."
"The adverse weather conditions certainly caused some problems last week-end but the committee are delighted that our Cup game versus Neyland will be played here on Monday 3rd January. Fixture Secretary Nye Williams is to be congratulated on all his hard work in arranging this fixture, while Neyland and Bridgend (who we will now visit on a date to be arranged) are to be thanked for their co-operation. Victory over Neyland (not to be taken for granted) will mean a visit to Tumble in the 3rd Round on the 8th January. Although we would have obviously preferred a home draw, the team are confident that they can progress once again into the quarter finals. Let's hope this confidence is well founded and not only reach the quarter finals but progress into the semi-finals for the first time."
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"This afternoon we are delighted to welcome our friends from across 'the Border'. No 'Festive Season' at Rodney Parade would be complete without a visit from the 'Sonians'. Formed in the same year as ourselves, 1875, they have contributed a great deal to Scottish rugby both on and off the field. During our Centenary Season we marked the historic meeting by paying tribute to all the men who had achieved the games highest honours from the club."
"Fixtures between our two clubs date back over many years. The friendships that have been formed are stronger than ever, and it is certain that following this afternoons game many new ones will be forged over a pint or a 'wee dram'. The Maroon & Whites have been having quite a good season and are confident that they can provide the Black & Ambers with top class opposition. Behind the scrum outside half John Forbes provides the spring board for a three quarter line who are strong and fast. Up front the Kennedy brothers in the lock positions provide the power, while Nicholson and Forrest are two very effective flankers. It's certain that the Watsonians will offer no favours to their former player Jim Stewart, who plays against them this afternoon. Jim joined the Newport Club a few months ago (as a Watsonian he said 'there was only one club for me to join when my work brought me south, Newport') and although his first team appearances have been very limited, he has proved an ideal club man and played well for the United. Thanks for the export, Watsonians."
"Everyone at Rodney Parade are delighted that you have arranged another fixture in Gwent during your visit. You will find the 'Men of Steel' at Ebbw Vale, very hard opposition, but the welcome and hospitality you receive off the field will be in keeping with Welsh rugby tradition. No doubt some Rodney Parade regulars will find their way up the valley to give you some vocal support."
"Welcome Watsonians, we can assure you that the 'Season of Goodwill' will be extended to you in every way, except on the field of play. It is always nice to welcome old friends and make new ones in rugby football and remember their will always be a Welcome in the Hillside for you."