1979 saw the introduction of Pools but this was criticised by some as they felt that previously the weaker teams were knocked out rather than having to play 3 matches in each pool. Newport managed just one win in their pool and were eliminated. Llanelli captained by Peter Morgan beat Ebbw Vale in the final 26-16. They were 20-0 up thanks to tries by Peter Morgan, Martin Gravelle, Tony Morgan and Alun Davies before Ebbw Vale hit back with a converted try by Mostyn Richards. In the second half a further try by Tony Morgan sealed the win though Chris Edwards and David Fryer did score tries for Ebbw Vale. Peter Morgan won the Everson Award.

Ebbw Vale 4-8 L
Aberavon 0-18 L
Abertillery 16-4 W