SOUTH African legend Gary Teichmann, led the tributes to Rod Snow after he flew in especially to take part in his testimonial match at Rodney Parade on Saturday.

It was Teichmann's first appearance at the ground since he retired from rugby four years ago at the end of a glorious career, and it was limited to 30 second-half minutes, though he still scored a try.

"It was a big occasion for Rod, it's very difficult to find such loyalty in today's game and he deserved his testimonial," said Teichmann, who is now a member of the Natal Sharks board, as well as running his own construction business in his native Durban.

"I only played with Rod for a couple of years, but he was always very committed, and from a captain's point of view he was very easygoing to have in the team.

"He has been a big part of the Newport team and they will miss him."

Ian Gough, meanwhile, was disappointed he couldn't play in the game because of the Wales tour to North America at the end of the month.

"When Rod first turned up I was in the youth team, and it's a shame he's going," said Gough. "It was devastating I couldn't get on and not be part of the photograph, that was gut-wrenching.

"Rod has been brilliant, a big character, and even the rain couldn't spoil a good crowd from turning up. "Shane and Gary are legends, too. And my first game was Muddy Waters' last, it was great to see them all back here."

Snow's former Canadian teammate, Gareth Rees, is a former Newport points-scoring record- holder who got Snow to join the club when he played for them ten years ago.

"Rod has been one of Canada's greatest players and I was delighted to come back for the game," said Rees, who also flew over for Snow's testimonial dinner at the Celtic Manor Resort in February.