This Boxing Day game was reported in the Monmouthshire Merlin on 29th December 1882:-
"FOOTBALL.- Newport v. South Wales. - An interesting match between these teams took place on the ground of the Newport Club on Boxing Day, the game being witnessed by about 3000 persons. The weather was unfavourable, and the ground very soft and slushy, so that the players soon resembled a lot of "mudlarks" in appearance. The Welsh team was hardly a representative one, several Newport players having to join them to make up the deficiency in their numbers. South Wales won the toss, and Newport kicked off about three o'clock, facing the grand stand. The visitors did not succeed in returning the ball, and they speedily touched-down in self-defence. This they did a second time, and on the ball being started afresh the visitors succeeded in working the leather into their opponents' quarters, forcing the Newport men to touch-down. When the ball was again in motion it was soon sent into "Welsh territory" and a try on the part of Newport was ere long converted into a goal by G. F. Harding. Subsequently the home team obtained two further tries, but failed to secure goals. Play continued on the ground of the Welshmen, scrimmages being the order of the day. B. Newman eventually succeeded in collaring the ball and made a goal by a clever bit of manoeuvring. Half time was then called. During the latter part of the game the visitors played with great determination, but they failed to keep the ball out of their quarters for more than a brief period, and Newport was credited with another goal. On time being called the scores stood thus: Newport, three goals, three tries, twelve touches-down. South Wales, two touches-down."