From the match programme, including an early call for a Rugby World Cup to be set up:-
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"This afternoon we welcome Swansea to Rodney Parade full of confidence following an outstanding start to the season under their new captain Geoff Wheel."
"Geoff, who has received many disappointments in the game including having to withdraw from a British Lion's Tour, is extremely popular for his wholehearted effort on the field, and it is certain he will lead by example. Under his inspiration the "All Whites" will be looking to repeal their cup success of 1978, when they defeated Newport in the final by 13 points to 9 points, and also carry off the Club Championship, an honour that has eluded them for a long time. He has a highly talented team at his command and it is difficult to find a weakness."
"Full back Roger Blyth is back to full fitness and displaying all the skills which make him an outstanding candidate to take over the No.15 jersey in the Welsh Team. New recruit Tony Swift from Fylde, is making a big impression on the wing with his fast illusive running, and is having plenty of opportunities due to the skilful mid field play of David Richards, Alun Meredith and Gareth Jenkins. Teenage outside half Malcolm Dacey, seized the opportunity of playing with Huw Davis, and behind such a powerful pack, to display his promise."
"Up front the arrival of British Lion's prop Clive Williams from Aberavon, to a pack already containing such outstanding players as the captain himself, Barry Clegg, Phil Llewellyn, H. Morgan, Richard Moriarty, Trevor Cheeseman, Mark Keyworth, G. Roberts and M. Davis."
"Following their unbeaten tour of the Far East during August, Swansea look well set for honours both as a team and individually. Congratulations must be extended to Tony Swift and Trevor Cheeseman on their selection in the England "B" team. Welcome Swansea, your victories at Rodney Parade have been few since the last war, you can be certain the Black and Ambers will try to keep it that way today."
"CLUB NOTES"
"Members and supporters are reminded that a Newport XV will visit Tumble on Monday next, 24th September, to play a Benefit Game in aid of Malcolm Stephens. The Supporters Club intend running a bus to this game to add their support to this worthwhile cause and anyone interested in travelling is requested to hand their names in at the Skittle Alley following today's game."
"The resignation of Sid Jeffrey as coach has been accepted by the Newport Football Committee who would like to thank him for his dedication'and loyalty over the last four years. Sid has given a great deal of his time to the Club and the players, and this has been greatly appreciated. His successor Adrian Hearn is well aware of the present situation at Rodney Parade, and is under no illusions that he can work any miracles. But he is confident that with the help of everyone i.e. Players, Committee, Members and Supporters, some light will appear at the end of a very dark tunnel. This will take time and not happen overnight, but it is certain that everyone will give him the help he requires to put Newport back on the right road."
"The Football Committee would like to thank Doctors John Miles and Lindsay Roblin, plus Mr. Eric Sturdy and Mr. Burt Nicholas, for the excellent new Medical Room that has been fitted out under the main grandstand. The equipment contained in this room is first class, and all players should know that no matter what injury they may suffer they can be expertly treated."
"TALKING RUGBY"
"With Rugby Union Football now accepted as a World Game, and with large amounts of Sponsorship available in various forms, perhaps the time is not too far away when the International Rugby Board will organise a World Cup Competition. What a great way it would have been for the Welsh Rugby Union to celebrate their Centenary in 1980-81, by hosting the first ever Rugby Union World Cup, (the following is a possible example)."
"Sixteen countries could be invited to take part, these would then be divided into four groups as follows: Group A, England, New Zealand, Argentina, Canada; Group B, Ireland, Australia, Japan, Russia; Group C, Scotland, South Africa, Roumania, Tonga Group D Wales. France Fiji U.S.A."
"To ensure the Rugby fanatics of Wales have the opportunity of seeing this great event, the games could be played in East and West Wales, and remembering the enormous expense that would be incurred. Group A matches could be played at Rodney Parade (28,000), Group B matches at St. Helens Swansea (40,000), Group C matches at Stradey Park Llanelli (20,000) and Group D matches at the National Stadium (50,000)."
"Each country would arrive in Wales on the Saturday prior to the competition starting on the following Wednesday, with the next games the following Saturday, and the final group games on the following Wednesday. The four group winners would then go into the semi final draw with the semi final matches being played on the Saturday at the National Stadium and St. Helens Swansea. The final at the National Stadium would be on the following Saturday, with the game for third and fourth places taking place at the same venue on the Wednesday prior to the final."
"The organisation and cost for such a venture would be astronomical, but what a challenge it would present to the Administrators of Rugby Union Football. It is certainly the best way of settling many arguments as to who are the "World Champions". "