History of Newport RFC :: 1874

"YES, IT was a bit of a downer, that semi-final defeat by Swansea at Stradey Park. Everybody admits it and, of course, no one has felt it more than the players themselves who genuinely believed that they could manage the coveted double."

"But just think for a moment. If someone had told the average Cardiff supporter way back last September that his club was going to win the Heineken League championship and also reach the semi-final of the SWALEC Cup, then he would surely have settled for that."

"And, further, if that someone had said, "Which is more, 11 of your favourites will be in the Welsh World Cup squad for South Africa," then it would surely have been regarded as an exaggeration."

"As it is, for both team and individuals, season 1994-95 must go down as one of the more successful in Cardiff's history. "We can still improve next season," says coach Alec Evans later in the programme - and the players are right behind him."

"In the meantime, it should be an afternoon of celebration, of fun and enjoyment. On the field both Cardiff and Newport for different reasons can relax; Cardiff because only a mathematical miracle can prevent the Heineken Trophy coming to the Arms Park (can Pontypridd really score 20-plus tries at triumphant Treorchy who this morning sit proudly in fourth place) and Newport because they have deservedly saved themselves from the trauma of relegation."

"The entertainment should, weather permitting, continue even after the final whistle with the celebratory arrival from the skies of the Red Devils free-fall team (once more, further information later in this programme) while all of us should raise a glass or two to the Cardiff team who have provided much colourful and spectacular rugby during the season."

"Also in the programme the club expresses its thanks to a vast variety of different kinds of people who have helped in a multitude of ways. We apologise if anyone has been missed; so many have contributed."

"Today, for example, the match is sponsored by Wyndham's who have supported the club so well in recent seasons. We hope that Mr Stuart Stephenson, his colleagues and guests have a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon - as, we hope also, do the players, officials and supporters of Newport who are warmly welcomed to the Arms Park for this final match of the season. Have a good summer..."

"GOLDEN OLDIES GET TOGETHER"

"THOSE DAYS when Newport and Cardiff used to meet four times a season will undoubtedly be recalled in one part of the ground today when the former players of the two sides meet for their annual reunion."

"So if you spot stars from the past, you'll know why they are here."