"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"This evening we extend a very warm Rodney Parade welcome to our near neighbours from the Western Valley of Gwent, Newbridge. The Blue and Blacks (yes, we can't get away from those colours) have had, by their own high standards during recent years, a very disappointing season, but it's certain that Peter Jones and his team will be flat out for victory this evening as wins over the Black and Ambers are greatly cherished at the Welfare Ground. The "Injury Bug" has certainly struck The Bridge throughout the season and many young players have been thrust into the first class game with very little experience, although possessing plenty of ability."
"Captain Peter Jones must be congratulated on his dedication to his task and he has carried out his duties both on an off the field with a determination that is in keeping with the Club. He must have been delighted with the return to the Club of Welsh international lock Terry Shaw after his brief period with Cardiff. Other pleasing events on the field have been the points-accumulating skills of full back Peter Goodfellow, the pace, and guile of Chris Phillips, Chris Manley and Steve Crandon, and the development of the highly promising half backs Paul Williams and Mark Oliver. Up front the pack is formidable when everyone is fit, with such players as Paul Ransom, Brandon Cripps, Gary Hewlett, Len Simms, Chris Jarman and Stuart Griffiths to choose from."
"Last week saw the death of Dr. Buick, who made a tremendous contribution to the Newbridge Club in various capacities during the '60s and '70s. His enthusiasm for the success of the Newbridge Club was well known in rugby circles. He will be sadly missed, not only at the Welfare Ground but by his many friends throughout rugby."
"Welcome, Newbridge - our friendly rivalry has developed over many years and there is no doubt that tonight's game will rekindle memories of past encounters for both sets of supporters."
"CLUB NOTES"
" 'MJW' and his team wish to thank all those members and supporters who were present at Rodney Parade last Saturday evening for the wonderful welcome they received following the great disappointment suffered during the afternoon. It was very emotional and meant a great deal to the players who had given everything in their quest to bring the Schweppes Challenge Cup back to Rodney Parade. Unfortunately, following the celebrations Mrs. Cis Hawkins was involved in an accident while walking home with her husband Jim, which resulted in her being taken to the Royal Gwent Hospital. She is now recovering at home and everyone here at Rodney Parade wishes her a speedy and full recovery. Get well, Cis - the tea-room is not the same without you."
"Congratulations to back row forwards Roger Powell and Richie Collins on passing personal landmarks with the Newport Club in last Saturday's Cup Final. Roger played his 250th 1st XV game, while Richie reached his century. Team-mate Marc Batten reaches that milestone this evening and will be hoping to celebrate the occasion, like Richie, with a try. Congratulations must also be extended to Jonathan Callard on retaining the captaincy of the Wales U-20 team who played at Newbridge on Monday, while Black and Amber team-mate Frank Hillman made his debut for the County in the game."
"Having defeated Newbridge 7pts to Nil at the Welfare Ground earlier this season, the Black and Ambers will be anxious to forget last Saturday and gain "the double", which will help in their quest for the Runners-up spot in the Whitbread Merit Table. One player who will be keen to carry on where he left off last Saturday, just failing to get the "Man of the Match" award, will be Paul Turner. He missed the game earlier this season due to injury, and will be keen to display all his skills against the team he captained and played for with such distinction for many years."