Newport under the able leadership of tough forward Bob Gould continued in 1886-87 with the 3 three-quarters system and this proved successful against the Welsh clubs whom many had switched to 4 threequarters.

Newport continued in their belief that matches were won with big forward battalions. They were later to learn that 8 good scrummaging forwards against 9 would leave an extra man behind who could turn the scales.

Just 3 matches of the 25 played were lost - all away Swansea (twice) and Llanelly. George Thomas led the try scorers with 16 followed by Charlie Thomas 10, Richard Whitcombe Powell 8, H Peperall 8 and James Webb 6. Arthur Gould who was to set a long standing drop goal record was credited with 2 dg and also 1t.

1887 saw the South Wales Challenge Cup Final played at Rodney Parade with Swansea defeating Llanelli by 1Goal to Nil.