"CLUB NOTES"

"PENARTH has been the Cinderella club of Welsh rugby for some years and the Barbarian club (up until 1985) was the equivalent of the Fairy Godmother. It is arguable that without the famous tourists Penarth would not have survived as a "Merit Table club". The Barbarians first made their Easter Headquarters at Penarth in 1901 and The Seasiders played their visitors on Good Friday. There were early successes in 1904,1905 and 1906 and another hat-trick from 1912-1914. However, after victory in 1920 there was a wait of another 40 years for the next success. For some time outstanding victories, rather than outstanding seasons, have been Penarth's fortune. Season 1956/7 brought victories over Cardiff, Newport and Swansea, and the Barbarians held to a draw. Newport supporters will recall Bernard "Slogger" Templeman, a scrum-half of immense character and talent. In 1960, with Templeman giving a brilliant performance, Penarth beat the much-fancied Newport by 20pts to 5pts in the Snelling Sevens semi-final."

"There have been many set-backs for Penarth - what other committee had to fill in a bomb crater before matches could resume after World War II! League rugby promised better things, but the "New Administration" flattered to deceive. There has been an influx of new players however and hopefully they will remain."

"Through all adversity the Penarth players have won admiration for their clean, disciplined and open approach to the game. In their club-house the welcome is genuine and the hospitality generous. Welcome, Penarth . . . and good luck for 1990/91."

"NEWPORT YOUTH RUGBY . . ."

"An inaugural meeting of the Newport Youth Past Players Association will be held in the Brecon Lounge (NAC) on October 27th at 7.30 p.m. The objective of the Association will be to provide support (moral and financial) for the current Youth and Junior (under 17 age group) teams. ALL past Youth players are heartily invited to attend."

"The Youth XV is enjoying a good start to the season with but one defeat to-date. In the newly-formed under 17 group a talented squad has graduated from the Town XV and the boys have a 100% success record. Nicky Morgan and Leon Pemberton, both pupils at Bettws, who starred in the under 15 group, continue to impress. Maintaining the high standard, the Town XV, resplendent in new jerseys kindly sponsored by Mr. C.C. Williams (M & S International Ltd.) defeated Caerfilli and District Schools by 22pts to 4pts last Saturday morning. Coached by Andrew Coughlan (Liswerry) and John Price (Bassaleg) the boys have won all four games played, scoring 109pts with 24pts against. It would appear that rugby in Newport is in a very healthy state - long may it so remain!"