From the match programme:-
"CLUB NOTES"
"Tonight we once again defend our ground record against a team from across the bridge. But following the improvement shown by the forwards in Wednesday nights fine win over near neighbours, Newbridge, it is certain that Gloucester are going to find it hard to achieve a victory. Already Bristol and Bath, have failed this season, as have other English clubs, Coventry and Blackheath."
"Skipper Geoff Evans and Coach Sid Jeffries, must have been pleased with Wednesdays performance, although they realise that there is still a long way to go before we are a well oiled machine. The return of players from injury has certainly helped during the last week, while the knowledge that Colin Smart, David Waters and Richard Barrell, all test their fitness with the United team at Gloucester, tomorrow, is very welcome news. It was very nice to see Lyn Jones returning to the fold this week after missing such a long period due to work commitments. Although obviously lacking a little in match fitness, his form against Newbridge shows how valuable he is in the pack."
"With 'the Big 5' anxious to ensure that everyone is fit for the All Blacks game on the 11th November, they must be relieved at the fine form and fitness of Brynmor Williams. He is certainly tuning himself up in the correct manner, and everyone at Rodney Parade is confident that he will wear the No. 9 jersey on the 11th. Unfortunately his partner David Barry injured his wrist while making his Wales 'B' debut last Tuesday, but although not available for tonights game, it is hoped he will be available for selection next week."
"All our players who turned out for the County at Newport Saracens last Monday evening aquitted themselves well, and provided they escape injury between now and the 29th November, should make the team to play the All Blacks here at Rodney Parade. As this is the last home game of this month, it is an appropriate time to remind you but I am certain there is no need, that the 30th of October, is the fifteenth anniversary of Brian Price's teams historic victory over Wilson Whinerays All Blacks. We extend our best wishes to every member of that team wherever they may be."
"Have you got your tickets for the Cabaret Night at the Double Diamond, on the 10th November?? If not get in touch with Campbell Black NOW!!!"
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"In welcoming Gloucester to Rodney Parade this evening, the Newport Rugby Football Committee, would like to express their thanks to them for readily agreeing to play us tonight and avoid clashing with the Cardiff v All Blacks game at the National Stadium Cardiff, tomorrow afternoon."
"Tonight is a very special occasion for both clubs for it marks the 100th anniversary of the first meeting between the clubs. This took place at Newport on the 7th December, 1878, when the Black and Ambers, under the captaincy of W. Phillips, were held to a no score draw. Newport won the return fixture on the 15th February, 1879, by one try to nil. Since those days the clubs have met on 166 occasions, with the Black and Ambers winning 110, the Cherry and Whites 41 and 15 being drawn. Last season each club won their home fixture, Gloucester at Kingsholme by 16pts to 6pts, and Newport at Rodney Parade by 17pts to nil. Incidently this game marked Brynmor Williams' debut in a Black and Amber jersey."
"This season 'the Cherry and Whites' have found it difficult to achieve a consistant rhythm to their play. The retirement of England prop forward Mike Burton, has left a gap in their forward power but it is certain that any pack containing such forwards as John Fidler, Steve Boyle, Keith Richardson, John Haines and John Watkins, must be a force to be reckoned with. Behind the scrum, Peter Butler, with his magnificent goal kicking is a threat to any side, while Bob Clewes, Richard Jardine and Chris Williams, take a lot of looking after. Last Saturday a depleted Gloucester team, through County calls, lost to Harlequins, at Kingsholme by 20pts to 9pts. This defeat must be added to those suffered on their two previous visits into Gwent this season to Pontypool and Ebbw Vale. Another defeat the Cherry and Whites will remember from September, was by their near neighbours Cheltenham, while the 16 - 16 draw with rivals Bristol did nothing for their confidence."
"Formed in 1873, Gloucester have made a great contribution to rugby football at club, county and country level. They have produced numerous internationals during their illustrious history and it is certain that they will continue to do so in the future."
"Welcome Gloucester, may your visits continue for another century, let's hope tonights game will be as exciting as those of the past and may the friendships made on and off the field be ever lasting."