From the match programme:-
"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"THIS AFTERNOON we extend a very warm welcome to our friends from across the Severn Bridge - Bristol - who, under the captaincy of lock Nigel Pomphrey have opened the season in fine style with victories over Torquay, Northampton and "that Club at the other end of the Newport Road" last Wednesday evening at the Memorial Ground. This fine start to the season must be pleasing to the new captain and the coaching staff, not only for the victories but for the exciting brand of "Bristol style" rugby the team have been playing. Coach Mike Rafter and his assistant Bob Hesford, two players who served both Bristol and England with distinction during their playing days, are determined that Nigel and his young team will provide exciting running rugby and it is certain that this philosophy will receive full support from new selector Alan Morley who, having retired at the end of last season, is looking forward to giving as much to Bristol rugby off the field as he did on the field during a career which made him a legend at the Memorial Ground. Captain Nigel Pomphrey has made over 300 1st XV appearances and will be looking to the experience of Austin Shepherd and Peter Polledri, who have both made over 400 1st XV appearances, to help guide the talented young forwards ? including Paul Collings, Andy Sunn and Jeff Crane - provide the right-kind of ball for a highly talented back division to use. Mark Taunton, who scored 231pts in 27 games last season, is in the pivot position and, with the retirement of John Norton who's appearances following his arrival from Bath were very limited due to injuries, will be determined to ensure that the exciting running skills of centre Ralph Knibbs and wings John Carr and Huw Duggan are exploited to the full. The arrival of David Thomas from Bridgend to partner Knibbs has ensured the right blend and, with young full back Jon Webb ready to attack from any area of the ground, English international scrum half Richard Harding will ensure that the ball is clear of set pieces as quckly as possible."
"With both teams holding unbeaten records this season, the scene is set for what promises to be a game to remember. Our two Clubs first met in 1889, and many great games have taken place - let's hope that today's game will be recalled in years to come for the quality of rugby produced and the spirit in which the game was played."
"Welcome Bristol - the unfortunate happenings of Saturday, 14th September 1985 have now passed into history and we are confident that they will in no way sour the good relationships that have existed between our two Clubs for nearly a century."
"Victories over Penarth, Coventry and Pill have certainly given the Black and Ambers a good foundation for the season and in scoring a century of points in the three games it must be emphasised that the team have crossed for 21 tries. The selectors have a strong squad of forwards to select from when everyone is fit and it is understandable that with such a heavy commitment during September changes have to be made to give certain players a rest. At this period of the season it is important that players are not overplayed. The news on John Rawlins is encouraging and the extent of his injury not as serious as first thought when he was stretchered off last Saturday. With "Lady Luck" on his side he could be back playing next week."
"Last Monday evening, following the AGM of Newport Athletic Club, R.T. Evans, President, and Mr. Ted Lysaght officially opened the newly constructed "Lysaght Bar" in the Rodney Hall. Ted has been a life-long supporter of Newport R.F.C. and saw his first game at Rodney Parade in 1911. His family commenced their business in Newport in 1900 and have had a long association with Newport Athletic Club. His generous gift to the Club which helped to pay for the construction of the bar is greatly appreciated and there is no doubt it will be well and truly christened by members and supporters of both Clubs at today's game. It must be mentioned that the very attractive "Lysaght Bar" was constructed by David and John Rogers and their company, a family who have also contributed greatly to Newport rugby."
"Nice to see Mrs. Cis Hawkins at Rodney Parade last Monday ? let's hope she is well enough to return regularly in the near future."