From the match programme:-
"WELCOME TO THE PARADE"
"THIS EVENING we extend a very warm Rodney Parade welcome to our near-neighbours from the Western Valley, Cross Keys. The Black and Whites are going through a traumatic season following their Centenary celebrations last season, and there would have been many smiles at Pandy Park last Saturday when their win over North Wales Club Wrexham ended nine consecutive defeats. The victory was achieved at the cost of two players who may be sidelined for a few weeks in the persons of Stuart Havard and Simon Hopkin. The "Keys" selectors certainly believe that "it never rains, unless it pours"."
"The great rivalry that has existed between the two Clubs for decades is understandable when one considers the movement of players between Pandy Park and Rodney Parade. Current Club Coach Tony Faulkner commenced his first class playing career at Pandy Park before moving to Pontypool from where he obtained his many honours at international level."
"The Black-and-White-faithful will need no reminding that 12 games have elapsed since they achieved a victory over the Black and Ambers. Their last victory was on 30th January 1980 when they won here at Rodney Parade by 16pts to 3pts. Last season Newport completed "the double" by winning by 20pts to 6pts at home and by 13pts to 12pts away."
"This season's Chairman of Cross Keys is a former Newport lock of the 1950's - John Herrerra - who commenced his playing career at Pandy Park prior to following in the footsteps of his uncle Ron, who was a distinguished Welsh International. We welcome John, his committee and players for what promises to be a game full of interest."
"Following our victory over Swansea University in last Saturday's 3rd Round W.R.U. Cup game, everyone at Rodney Parade was hoping that "Lady Luck" would be on our side in the draw for the quarter finals. Unfortunately this was not the case and the lack of John Powell manipulating "the balls" may have been the reason why two of the three Gwent Clubs left in the competition were drawn away. Our visit to Arms Park on 24th February will mean that our scheduled return Club match with the Blue and Blacks will not take place on 24th March as this is the date for the semi-finals. Let's hope "MJW" and his team will be able to break another "away hoodoo" for, as every Black and Amber follower knows, it is eleven years since we won at Arms Park. One thing is certain - the team will not lack vocal support and this can pay dividends, as Aberavon, Bristol and Bridgend have found during the last two months."
"This evening sees the return of the highly popular Rhys Morgan to the 1st XV following his illness. Everyone is delighted that he is fully recovered and able to retain his tight head position and add all his expertise and experience to the redoubtable Newport scrum. It also means that Rhys recommences his challenge on Keith Poole's individual appearance record. Welcome back Rhys, and all best wishes for the future."
"Next Saturday we visit the Gnoll striving to complete "the double" over Neath and open up the top positions in the Whitbread Wales Merit Table. Following the massive crowd who witnessed their cup victory over Llanelli, the All Blacks will obviously be looking for another large crowd to welcome the team currently being hailed as the in-form team in the country. They will also be aware that although they have a clear lead at the top of the table it was the Black and Ambers who received the cheque for ?150 as the team of the month for December. The cheque will actually be presented this evening by a representative of Whitbread Wales."
"The 'Big Freeze' certainly caused problems for some Clubs regarding postponed matches and there is a strong possibility that our proposed visit to Leicester on Saturday 14th February will be cancelled. If this should be the case, fixture secretary Bob Atkins will endeavour to fill the gap by arranging a fixture here at Rodney Parade, so please ensure you keep informed either via the Bridgend Match programme or the media. It is essential that "MJW" and his team play to keep their current form on song."
"The injuries sustained by Roger Powell and Jeff Howells last Saturday were not serious and both should be available for selection at the weekend, although the same cannot be said for Jonathan Callard who is required by his College ? St. Paul's, Cheltenham ? for the next few weeks."