From the match programme:
"WELCOME TO RODNEY PARADE"
"This evening we play our first Welsh opponents of the season, and it is hard to think of anyone better suited to open our programme than our near neighbours from the Eastern Valley, Pontypool."
"Under their new captain Jeff Squire they returned from their summer tour of America under the glare of publicity, but everyone at the Park is confident that the foundation has been laid for another highly successful season. The loss of John Perkins, under suspension, and the defection of Steve Sutton to the Western Valley i.e.Ebbw Vale, would have left most sides struggling in the lock positions, but the old Mistro Ray Prosser, is certain that the veteran Ron Floyd and college student Kevin Edwards will keep up the standard of the mighty Poola pack. Charlie Evergreen Faulkner has resumed training and is determined to regain his place alongside his illustrious colleagues Graham Price and Bobby Windsor in the not too distant future. Until this historic occassion takes place the talented Staff Jones plays in the Famous Front Row. In the back row skipper Jeff Squire is now considered one of the worlds outstanding players in his position, and it is certain that he will learn a great deal from that Living Legend of the Eastern Valley, Terry Cobner. It is great to see Terry playing with so much enthusiasm and skill following a period when due to illness he lost his appetite for the game."
"Behind the scrum Pontypool are always on the look out for new talent although they are confident that their prolific point scoring fullback Peter Lewis must be in contention for the Welsh spot vacated by J.P.R. He has all the skills necessary for the position as well as being able to accumulate points like an adding machine. Many of the games leading critics have lorded his praises over the last few seasons and J.P.Rs retirement may give him the opportunity of reaching the top. In front of him Goff Davis is ready to add to his already impressive try haul, while centres Paul Clark and Nigel Probert are seeking to establish themselves in their positions. Nigel Osborn, has made the journey East from Ebbw Vale to play scrum half where he teams up with Alan Watkins who has claimed the No.10 shirt over Paul Crabtree now that Paul Turner has returned home to Newbridge."
"During the last decade, Pontypool have proved very much a bogey team for Newport, the Black and Ambers have only won two out of the last fourteen garnet. It is certain that they will be determined to add to that record tonight against the enemy, and It is no secret that the Captain and Coach have set their sights on winning the W.R.U.Challenge Cup for the first time this season."
"Welcome Pontypool, and what ever the result may Rugby Football be the winner this evening."
"CLUB NOTES"
"Everyone at Rodney Parade was delighted with the announcement last week by the Welsh Rugby Union, that Newport have been allocated one of the two games to be played in Wales, the other being played at Llanelll, by the South African Barbarians on their forthcoming tour of Great Britain. Provided the tour goes ahead and is not stopped by Mrs. Thatcher and her Government, the game will take place at Rodney Parade on Saturday 26th October 1979, replacing our scheduled game versus the Wasps. All rugby people hope that the politicians will stay out of sport and that we will have the opportunity of seeing this multi-racial side play on our ground. A ground which has seen many famous encounters against Springbok teams, including the Combined Stellenbosch and Capetown University team in the mid 50s."
"Although there are great clouds of depression hanging over Rodney Place these days, due to our South African tour, certain players leaving the Club, and our opening three defeats, certain chinks of light can be seen. Last Saturday a very young and inexperienced United XV showed with their 17-15 win over a vastly more experienced and physically bigger Bristol United team (they included English International Mike Rafter and Far East tourist Nigel Pomphrey) that provided everyone contributes 100% effort, and plays for the Black and Amber jersey, success can be achieved."
"Members and supporters are requested to note 2 matches that are not included on the official fixture list, Monday 24th Sept. Tumble at Tumble, and Thursday 18th Oct. Suburbs of New Zealand at Rodney Parade."
"This evening It would be very remiss of the Newport Rugby Club if they did not express their deepest sympathy to Newport born Bobby Windsor and his family on their recent tragic loss. Words are of little meaning at a time like this, but we would all Like to say Good luck for the future Bob."