On 19th February 1878 the following report appeared in the Western Mail:-
"THE SOUTH WALES CHALLENGE CUP"
"NEWPORT v. LLANDOVERY.- On Saturday the tie between these clubs was played at Brecon. The day was very fine, and a large number of spectators assembled on the ground, which was in capital condition. The majority of those present were greatly in favour of Llandovery. The Newport captain won the toss, and kicked off, and they soon compelled their opponents to touch down twice. Spittle obtained a goal from a drop kick, which, however, was disputed. Again Newport compelled Llandovery to touch down twice in self defence. Cross obtained a free kick, having caught the ball, which Ponsford failed to turn into a goal. It was a splendid kick, but the distance was too great. Llandovery then forced Newport within a foot of the goal line, when the latter rallied up, and the ball was carried in the scrimmage right to the opponents' goal line, where a try was obtained by Cross. Phillips, the Newport captain, converted it into a goal. Thus Newport was victorious over Llandovery, the latter being nil. The game was very fast from beginning to end. It lasted an hour and a half. Llandovery played well throughout, especially C. P. Lewis and L. J. Morgan, captain.The following comprised the Llandovery team:- Messrs. Watkins and Bayley, backs; C. P. Lewis, H. J. Lewis, half-backs; L. J. Morgan, (captain), E. P. Lewis, quarter-backs; C. Williams, W. B. Harries, M. Lloyd, J. Sinnett, R. P. Williams, H. Williams, D. Edwards, L. Davies, and W. J. Jones, forwards; T. A. Rees, umpire. The Newport team consisted of Messrs. W. Phillips (captain) back; C. H. Newman, three-quarter back; G. Roper, T. Spittle, half-backs; A. F. Goss, C. B. Cross, quarter-backs; V. A. Julius, F. Tait, A. Goss, J. Jenkins, T. Ponsford, R. Loane, W. Mitchell, J. Gearing, A. C. Phillips, forwards; R. Mullock, umpire. Mr. H. W. Davies, hon. sec. South Wales Football Club, acted as referee."
"The final match for the cup will be played at Bridgend between Swansea and Newport. The day is not yet fixed."