From the match programme:-
"CLUB NOTES"
"This afternoon gives members and supporters the opportunity of getting out into the fresh air, after their eating and drinking excursions of the last few days. Everyone at Rodney Parade trusts that you celebrated with plenty of 'Christmas Cheer' and that Father Christmas brought you all those gifts you asked for. The Newport Committee and players, can thank Father Christmas or the 'Lucky Fairy' for bringing the gift of a home tie in the 3rd round of the Schweppes W.R.U. Challenge Cup."
"It has been rumoured that Bryn Meredith (one of our all time greats) and Chairman 'Nye Williams, put a magic spell on the balls before they were placed in the bag. But all those Black and Amber fanatics, who were holding their breath watching B.B.C's. Sports Line-Up programme, were relieved when No. 10 came out of the bag first, followed by Abercynon. In view of the hard games we have experienced versus Llanharan and Rhiwbina in previous rounds, and due to the fact that Abercynon achieved a memorable victory at Abertillery Park in the second round, we will be well prepared for the further defence of our cup on Saturday 14th January, 1978."
"Gwent are certain of one representative in the quarter finals with the winners of the Bedwas v Cross Keys tie, and will be hoping for Pontypool, Newbridge, Ebbw Vale and of course, Newport to join them."
"The injury situation at Rodney Parade has eased considerably during the last few weeks and with nearly all the playing staff now available, the selection committee will be looking to formulate a team who can regain in 1978, the high standard achieved last season. Leighton Oavies is nearing his century of points for the season, and must be congratulated on his achievement. His consistancy since arriving 'on the transfer list' from Cardiff, has been first class, and we all hope it will continue to the benefit of the Newport Club."
"The next few weeks will be vital for all players with aspirations of making the Welsh team for this seasons internationals or even the Welsh Squad. Our British Lions David Burcher, Gareth Evans, Geoff Squire and Brynmor Williams, are well aware of the competition they face to retain their places in the 'Squad' while Chris Webber, Steve Jones and David Waters, will have to show outstanding form to force their way into the reckoning. Everyone will anxiously be looking for the Final Trial Team and replacements to be announced and that the 'Big 5' will continue to watch the team as they have done during recent weeks."
"As this is the last game of 1977, the Chairman, Committee and players, would like to thank you for your excellent support during the year, and hope that it will continue as we strive for further success in 1978."
"We Wish You All,"
"A Very Happy, Prosperous and Healthy New Year."
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"Our Christmas 'spirit' this afternoon will be provided by newcomers to the Rodney Parade scene, in the persons of Cardiff College of Education. This fine 'rugby academy' formed in 1950, can look proudly on the excellent talent provided during it's short history."
"On checking through the list of Welsh Internationals who have gained their 'colours' at the College, one can easily understand why Cardiff have become one of the outstanding rugby colleges in the country. Gareth Edwards is their most capped player while other outstanding scrum halves who have played for the team during their term of residence are former Welsh captain and present 'Big 5' member Clive Rowlands. British Lion Brynmor Williams, Swansea's Robert Dyer and Llanelli's Selwyn Williams. Wing three quarters have also been plentiful during the years, with Dennis Perrott, former Newport player and committee man leading the way for such outstanding players as Bill Morris (Pontypool), Dewi Bebb, J. J. Williams and John Sevan. Up front the college can also claim to have helped such stalwarts as David Nash, Brian Price, John Lloyd, Alan Martin and John Jeffrey, on their way up the ladder to stardom."
"If one looks around the 'Welsh Rugby Scene' at the moment, many clubs at all levels are benefiting from the excellent grounding players receive at the college. A few of these in the first class game are Ian Hopkins (Maesteg) David Richards (Swansea) Clive Griffiths, Roy Bergiers (who everyone at Rodney Parade wishes a speedy return to the game) (Llanelli) Bob Dudley-Jones, Roger and Stuart Lane (Cardiff),Howard Dwyer (Ebbw Vale) and Paul Evans (Tredegar)."
"Over the years the Black and Ambers have had a steady stream of ex-students showing their rugby prowess at Rodney Parade. The present playing staff contains five ex-students, or I should say four, with one still in residence in the persons of Colin Smart, Bryan Lease, Brynmor Williams, Tim Nicholls and Chris Webber. Long may the supply continue."
"Off the field, two men who have had a great deal to do with the success of the college, are Roy Bish and Leighton Davies. Roy, who is now leading a very successful life in Italy, worked for many years to establish the college team and produce players who were masters of all the skills. Leighton, who will be remembered by Rodney Parade fans (especially David Watkins) as a dynamic wing forward, for Bridgend, has continued along the same lines, and all the students who have passed under the coaching skills of these two men, can be very grateful, as can the whole of Welsh Rugby."
"Welcome, Cardiff College of Education, we trust your visit will be a pleasant one, and that the 'Season of Goodwill' will prevail on the field."