From the match programme:-
"CLUB NOTES"
"B.B.C. Wales television cameras certainly proved our 'Lucky Mascots' again last Saturday in our nail biting cup quarter final tie with Pontypridd. 'Nick' Carter has already been in touch with Onllwyn Brace to make sure that they are present at Cardiff on the 1st April, for our semi-final tie versus Aberavon. 'Lady Luck' was certainly in evidence last Saturday but our lack of match practice during recent weeks certainly showed up. Let's hope the weather remains kind for the next month to enable all the players to get plenty of rugby and challenge for places in the semi final team."
"Having tasted the sweet smell of success last season, the team under captain David Burcher are determined to keep their grip on the cup although they are well aware of the formidable opposition they will have to overcome to retain the trophy. The visit of Aberavon current leaders of the Anglo-Welsh Merit Table, to Rodney Parade on the 20th March is bound to cause a great deal of excitement. Comparisons will be made between the respective teams and the Black and Ambers will be seeking revenge for their defeat at the Talbot Athletic Ground on the 10th December 1977."
"The United who played their first game for many weeks last Saturday, entertain Cardiff Athletic here at Rodney Parade on Friday evening K.O. 7 p.m. Why not make an effort to come along and get in the right mood for your tele, viewing on Saturday afternoon."
"Members and supporters are reminded that they can follow the Newport team during their tour of British Columbia in May. Further details are on display in this programme, so why not obtain all the details before making up your mind. While on the subject of the tour, don't forget your support is needed for all the functions the players are running to raise cash. A 'Race Nite' has been organised to take place in the Rodney Hall on Thursday 30th March 1978. Admission 25p. Why not come along and meet the players and gamble for your beer money as well!!"
"Tonight we settle down to the domestic scene once again, following all the excitement of the cup. Our 'arch enemies' from the other end of the Newport Road are certain to provide another nail biting encounter, but such rivalry is what Welsh Rugby is all about."
"Congratulations to Gareth Evans and Brynmor Williams on their selection for the Barbarians. This is Gareth's first time, we wish them both every success."
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"This evening we extend a very warm welcome to Cardiff, for their second visit this season to Rodney Parade. The Newport committee would like to take this opportunity of thanking the 'Blue and Blacks' for their readiness in playing this game, which was carried over from last season, due to both clubs being committed to W.R.U. Cup semi-finals."
"Cardiff, under the captaincy of that 'magical' wing-threequarters Gerald Davies, are having a memorable season and well merit the title of 'Wales' most outstanding Team'. At the moment they are riding high at the top of the Club Championship Table as well as being in the semi-final of the Schweppes W.R.U. Challenge Cup. Not only are they obtaining the correct results, but they are playing a brand of adventurous attacking rugby that has their supporters referring to the late 40's era. There can be no greater praise for any Cardiff team."
"Unfortunately, due to Saturdays Triple Crown game in Ireland, Rodney Parade fans will be denied the opportunity of giving a standing ovation to the most capped Welshman Gareth Edwards, on his magnificent achievement of obtaining a half century of caps. 'Well done Gareth' you are certainly a 'Superstar' even in Black and Amber eyes."
"The present Cardiff team are a mixture of youth and experience. Behind the scrum, Gerald and Gareth provide the experience, plus moments of pure magic, while David Thomas, Pat Daniels, Mike Murphy, Glyn Davies and Gareth Davies provide the youth. Centres Pat Daniels and Mike Murphy are developing into a fine centre combination and with youth on their side could well become our international pair when the present crop pass into the distance. They certainly know how to score tries as well as making them for their wing men. Up front the experience is provided by such stalwarts as Barry Nelmes, Ian Robinson, Mike Knill and Roger Lane, while youth 'rears it's head' in the form of Mike Watkins, Alan Phillips, Don Llewellyn, Carl Smith, Stuart Lane and Terry Charles. With such players as John Davies, Chris Camilleri, David Barry, Terry Holmes, Gerry Wallace, Pete Rawlings, Bob Dudley Jones, Mark McJennett and Derick Church to also call on, it is understandable why the Blue and Blacks are riding high."
"With last seasons Cup Final defeat and our fine 27- 10 victory at Rodney Parade on the 1st October, 1977, when we deprived them of their unbeaten record, still very much in their minds, it is certain that Cardiff will be flat out for victory this evening."
"Welcome Cardiff, you are aware that victories at Rodney Parade are never easily obtained, and the scene is set for what we hope will be a memorable game between two great clubs."