Theo Harding was captain in 1887-88 and just 4 matches were lost (Swansea 3 times and Cardiff once) of the 23 played. George Thomas, a professional sprinter was one of the threequarters and later became trainer. A man who was to prove to be one of Newport's best ever captains, Tom Graham, played his first game against Cardiff Harlequins on 15th October 1886. T. England appeared and H. Percy Phillips also played his first game. Arthur Gould, Jim Hannan and Charlie Thomas were there of course and Newport were on the fringe of a golden era. Charlie Thomas scored 17t and George Thomas 15t and both scored 5t in one match - against Neath and Middlesex Hospital respectively. George Morgan scored 13t and Jim Webb scored 2t from fullback vs Kingston-on-Thames.

During 1887-88 Newport did finally switch to the 4 three-quarter system.

Wales finally beat Scotland and Arthur Gould was said to have been the best threequarters on the field.

On 4th February 1888 Wales played Scotland at Rodney Parade winning by a try to nil.