From the match programme:-
"CLUB NOTES"
"Our defeat of Western Valley neighbours Newbridge, on Wednesday evening has laid the foundation for what everyone at Rodney Parade hopes will be the start of a run of success. The return of skipper British Lion David Burcher this afternoon, will be greeted warmly by members and supporters. He is certain of a great welcome home cheer, when he leads out his team. The same applause will apply to No. 8 British Lion Geoff Squire. These two players together with Gareth Evans will be making every effort early to show the 'Big 5' that they will have to include them in their plans for this seasons internationals."
"Congratulations must be extended to Gareth Evans on his selection to play in France in the game to mark the 75th Anniversary of the French Rugby Union. It is another honour for the player and the Newport Club. Congratulations must also be extended to Bryan Lease and Tim Nicholls on their selection for Somerset and Cornwall in the English County Championship and to coach Sid Jeffries, on his appointment as a Staff Coach with the Welsh Rugby Union. This means that both our coaches are now Staff Coaches of the W.R.U. as John Ryan continues in this capacity and also as a member of ihe W.R.U. Coaching Advisory Committee."
"Next week Llanelli visit Rodney Parade for what is certain to be the 'Match of the Day'. The Scarlets will bring along their usual 'Red Army' of supporters and it is vital that every Black and Amber die hard is present to lend vocal support to the team as they strive for a victory that will re float our unsteady ship and continue our success over the Scarlets. "
"The news that the Athletic Club are going to improve the facilities at Rodney Parade during the next close season will be received with great pleasure by members and supporters alike. The re-roofing of the grand stand will prove a sound investment for the future, while our floodlight system, the second system to be installed in Wales, Cross Keys were the first, certainly need renovating. Next season players and spectators alike should benefit frorn the new system, it has been possible to go ahead with these projects due to the healthy financial position of the club. Everyone at the club realises that this nositton is due to the magnificent season enjoyed by Newport Rugby Club during 1976-77. Gates were a record and with the Cup run included, receipts from Rugby Football certainly set a target for this season. The target is there to be beaten, so let's hope that 'Lady Luck' will smile upon us and ensure that all our players steer clear of injury for the rest of the season, for everyone at Rodney Parade is confident that with everyone to select from, it is possible to repeat last years success and who knows, even beat it."
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"This afternoon members and supporters are asked not to be alarmed if they see uniformed security guards around the ground and clubhouse. It is not because we have received prior warning that the Minister of Sport, is visiting us with regard to sports ground safety regulations, but because, thanks to Bob Evans' secret service, we have learned of an attempt by a London Gang, to remove a Golden Wasp, from our museum."
"The Wasps, who are having an inconsistent season, certainly put things together last weekend when they defeated the touring New Zealand side Wellington by 21 pts to 9 pts. Skipper Tony Richards, a fine wing three-quarter, will emphasise to his team that only two previous Wasps teams have achieved victory at Rodney Parade, 1949-50, 1963-64, and it will take a super human effort to recapture 'the Wasp'. The back division is a formidable one, with Nigel French in the centre following his game for the England XV v The American Eagles, at Twickenham, last Saturday. One player the skipper must wish he had in his line up is full back Geoff Richards who has emigrated to Australia. He was on the verge of an English cap following a series of outstanding displays, while his goal kicking accounted for many points. Outside half Ian Ball has taken over in this department and is proving quite successful, while his general play is keeping local boy Mike Wallboff out of the team."
"Up front the Wasps are always a formidable unit with big strong forwards, many of whom have generally had experience in New Zealand or Australia. Victories at Rodney Parade are hard to come by, but todays men in black will give everything they have to achieve it."
"The Wasps have been regular opponents on the Newport fixture list since the Second World War, although the first game between the clubs took place in 1928. Formed in 1867, some outstanding players have worn the black jersey emblazoned with the gold wasp motif. During the fifties and sixties such names as Ted Woodward, Gordon Bendon. Peter Tarranton. Bob Synett, John Herbert, Pat Sykes, Richard Sharp, David Rosser and Geoff Francom were regular members of the team. If the present side lack personalities of this kind it is certain that they will make up for it with team work."
"Last season Newport were victors at Sudbury by 18pts to 12pts. Welcome Wasps, let's hope our security arrangements stop you capturing the 'Golden Trophy'."