From the match programme:-
"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"TODAY'S visitors first appeared on a Newport fixture list way back in 1890 when the Black and Ambers led by G. LI. Lloyd were victorious by 2 goals and 3 tries to 1 try. Since the 8th April, 1890, our two Clubs have met on 118 occasions with Newport winning 88 games, Leicester 22, and 8 games being drawn and it is no secret that the 'Tigers' are well aware that only 4 of their 22 victories have been achieved here at Rodney Parade, 1926, 1932, 1972, and 1980. Last season the 'Tigers' humbled the Black and Ambers on their own ground by 37 pts to 6 pts, to follow their victory at Rodney Parade on the 9th February, 1980, by 16 pts to 14 pts, in actual fact we have to go as far back as the 14th February, 1976, to find the last Black and Amber victory when we won here on The Parade by 38 pts to 16 pts."
"During recent years Leicester have been the outstanding Club team in England and their success in the John Player Cup has been compared to that achieved by Llanelli in the early years of the W.R.U. Cup. The present team contains a galaxy of stars behind the scrum including England's mid-field trio for next Saturday's International in Paris versus France: Les Cusworth (congratulations on regaining your place, Les, you have always been popular here at The Parade), Clive Woodward, and Paul Dodge. Add to these 'Dusty' Hare, 'the most prolific points scorer in modern rugby; Peter Wheeler, a hooker who has obtained all the honours, plus Kevin Williams, a player who commenced his career here at Rodney Parade, and it is easy to understand their success. One man who deserves a great deal of credit for the success of the 'Tigers' is coach 'Chalky' White. Having served the Club with distinction as a player he is now acknowledged as one of the outstanding coaches in the country and ensures that his Club play a style of rugby that is enjoyed by players and spectators alike."
"Next Saturday Colin Smart becomes the most capped English International in the history of the Newport Club when he plays versus France. Everyone here at The Parade is delighted with his selection and offer their congratulations. The same applies to Robert Ackerman for his contribution to last Saturday's victory at the National Stadium by Wales over France. Not only was he an important 'cog' in the Terry Holmes try, but his covering and tackling in defence were first class. The England v. Wales clash at Twickenham on the 6th March, will be of particular interest to Black and Amber supporters, providing they both keep their places. It is hoped that Stuart Barnes will be available during the next few weeks to re-emphasise his talents to the 'Big 5' following the inept display of the Welsh mid-field trio last Saturday and that Gareth Evans will quickly recover from injury to once again stake his claim to a recall to the International scene."
"Last Monday our injury-ravaged team were defeated at the Brewery Field, Bridgend, by 31 pts to 12 pts and it is hoped that Robert Ackerman, Justin Robinson, Gareth Evans, Colin Smart and Captain Kerry Williams (who missed his first game of the season) will have recovered for this afternoon's encounter. Tomorrow afternoon on the B.B.C. Wales Sports Line-up programme the draw for the Quarter Finals of the Schweppes W.R.U. Cup will take place and everyone at Rodney Parade will be hoping that their 'lucky charms' will work and ensure a home tie."
"With the tour of British Columbia now confirmed the players are anxious to add to the finances of the Players' Tour Fund and have organised a number of functions during the next few months. They request your support to their Match Day Raffles and also the evening arranged at Tiffany's, Newport, on Thursday, 18th March, 1982; tickets £1 each."
"Welcome Leicester, we are confident that today's game will provide rugby of the highest quality and re-kindle memories of some of those 118 matches that have gone before."