From the match programme:-
"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"This evening we welcome Penarth to open the 1986-87 season, here at Rodney Parade. "Donkey Island" as our visitors are affectionately known as in the rugby world, opened our seasons for many years and the Black and Amber faithfuls were delighted, as were many other people in the rugby world, with the fine improvement they made last season under captain Rob McPherson. Re elected for this seaspn Rob has recently returned from his honeymoon and we wish him well in his duties both on and off the field. One player Penarth will miss this season is the fine South African No8 Rudi Streuli, who made a tremendous impact during his short stay at "Donkey Island". Penarth in an endeavour to maintain their improvement, have appointed Brian Joseph as "Team Manager" to work in close association with the captain. Everyone at Rodney Parade wishes them every success and are certain that their efforts and those of the other Committee Men and Players at the Athletic Ground will achieve just rewards."
"Here at Rodney Parade, "continuity" has once again been the major word during the close season with the re-election of Michael J. Watkins as 1st XV Captain, Keith James as United Captain and Tony Faulkner as Coach and Roy Duggan as Assistant Coach. "MJW" is at the helm for the 4th season in succession, a record this century and everyone is confident that his inspirational leadership coupled with his all action play will see the Black and Ambers improve on their record of last season. The enegmatic Keith James, is full of enthusiasm for the new season and determined that not only will his United side provide the right kind of atmosphere for the number of highly talented young players in the Club, but also ensure that they have the opportunity to develop their skills. Tony and Roy have worked tremendously hard with the players throughout the summer and are confident that the present 'Squad' with a few minor alterations, free from the "Injury Bug", and with "Lady Luck" on their side, are capable of bringing the "Glory Days", back to Rodney Parade."
"Honours have arrived at Rodney Parade early this season, with the selection of Jason White, David Waters and Richie Collins, for the Wales Squad to commence preperations for the forthcoming Five Nations Championship and the First ever Rugby World Cup. We hope they retain their places and gain eventual selection for the big games. To-night sees David Waters achieve a personal landmark in a Black and Amber jersey, as he makes his 400th 1st XV appearance. He joins a very exclusive Club of which only Keith Poole, Ian Ford and team mate Rhys Morgan are members. Well done "Muddy". At the other end of the scale, young Andrew Jewett is in Canada at the moment with the touring Welsh Youth team, and we wish him well. The experience he is bound to gain will obviously benefit him in the future as he mounts a challenge for a 1st XV berth."
"This evening, everyone at Rodney Parade extends a very warm "welcome back", to full back Paul Rees from that other Club at the end of the Newport Road. Since he last appeared in a Black and Amber jersey, Paul has represented Wajes 'B' and many fine judges consider he would have obtained senior honours if injuries had not struck him down at crucial times. Having regained full fitness, lets hope he quickly displays his talents and shows everyone what a fine attacking full back he is. With Paul Turner sunning himself on tne Meditteranean, the 'evergreen' Keith James opens another season wearing the No10 jersey, and it is rumoured that on his debut the outside half wore No6. Lock Robert Young, who was suspended by the Club last season, following his sending off versus London Welsh, has proved his loyalty, and following an outstanding display in the trials has secured a 1st XV place. Competition in the "power house" is certainly going to be fierce this season with Robert, John Widdicombe, Andrew Perry, David Waters and Simon Wensley in competition, while the same can be said in the front and back rows with John Rawlins, M.J.W., Rhys Morgan, Frank Hillman, Simon Jenkins, Hassan Ali, Paul Williams, Andy Pocock, Glen George, Richie Collins, Roger Powell, Wayne Rendall, Paul Roberts and Phil Booth in contention."
"On Wednesday, the United visit Bedwas for their opening fixture and contain a number of promising new players to the Club, why not make a date in your diaries and travel up the valley and lend your support."
"Match and Ball Sponsorship have proved a vital asset to Newport R.F.C. during recent years and anyone interested in helping in this field are requested to contact any member of the Sponsorship Sub Committee, Brian J. Jones, Campbell Black, Geoff Evans, Ian Barnard or Jeff Watkins immediately. Match Ball Sponsorship costs ?30, while Match Sponsorship costs depends on the Match chosen. A limited number of Matches remain, so why not get in touch NOW!!! and obtain full details. Remember, you will be helping Newport Rugby Football Club."