"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"THIS afternoon we are delighted to extend a very warm welcome to our friends from Swansea, who are currently the outstanding Club side in the country. Under their Captain David Richards The All Whites' have compiled an outstanding record, much to the satisfaction of Coach Ian Hall who, following his success as an International player, turned his talents to coaching the Welsh Youth XV before arriving at St. Helen's this season to succeed Stan Addicott, who retired after outstanding success during recent years. For many years following the 2nd World War, Swansea found great difficulty in recapturing pre-war glories, but during the last seven years they have built a Squad of players both experienced and talented that has become the envy of many clubs."
"A close look at the players within the Squad quickly shows the talent available, including Internationals Roger Blyth, Tony Swift, David Richards, Alan Donovan, Clive Williams, Barry Clegg, Geoff Wheel, Richard Morriarty and Mark Davies, while Mark Wyatt and Malcolm Dacey played for the Wales XV versus the N.Z. Maoris. Add to these players Gareth Jenkins, Huw Davies, Jeff Hydeman [ed. sic], Gareth Roberts, Trevor Cheeseman and Mike Rudock and it is easy to see why they are such a formidable unit."
"Swansea first visited Newport on 18th March 1876, having first played the Black and Ambers on 19th February 1876, and over the last century the two Clubs have met on 244 occasions (including earlier this season when Swansea won 21-7) with Newport winning 115, Swansea 90 and 39 being drawn. Of these results, 5 were achieved in the W.R.U. Cup Competition and with the two Clubs meeting in the 3rd round of this season's competition at St. Helen's on the 22nd of this month, it is interesting to note that Newport have only won on 1 occasion at Rodney Parade in January 1975, by 10 pts to 3 pts."
"Welcome, Swansea - long may our friendship continue, and we are confident that today's game will contain rugby worthy of both our Clubs."
"CLUB NOTES"
"1983 commenced on a rather dismal note at The Brewery Field, Bridgend, last Saturday for all Newport members and supporters. Following the displays prior and during the 'Festive Season' it had been hoped that 'Glad Tidings of Great Joy' would have been sounded, but unfortunately this was not to be and indiscipline and basic errors put another 'L' on the fixture card."
"Congratulations must be extended to Captain Colin Smart on his selection to make his 14th appearance in an England jersey versus France at Twickenham next Saturday. Everyone at Rodney Parade wishes him every success and hopes that he retains his place for the remainder of the season. Colin and his fellow prop forward, Rhys Morgan, are on course to pass the magical '300' mark in a Newport 1st XV jersey this season, having both made their debuts in 1973. Rhys has made 298 appearances, while Colin totals 288. Other current players over the '200' mark are David Waters - 247 games and Keith James - 213."
"The Committee would like to thank everyone who contributed to the collection made on behalf of Detective Alan Williams over Christmas and are pleased to announce that the sum of £200 has been sent to the Main Fund."
"The Chairman, Committee and Players would like to express their sincere appreciation to the Directors and Staff of Selflock Ltd., Cwmbran, who have generously sponsored this afternoon's game. We hope they find the venture worthwhile and that this will be the beginning of a long association with Newport R.F.C."
"The Supporters' Club will be running coaches to Swansea for the Cup game on 22nd January, leaving NAC at 1.00 p.m., and Neath on 29th January, leaving NAC 1.00 p.m. Names will betaken in the Club following today's game."