NEWPORT Rugby Club have insisted they acted in good faith over the transfer of Wales lock Mike Voyle after Cardiff complained about his move (writes Robin Davey).

Cardiff are not blaming Newport, but believe Voyle let them down.

A Cardiff spokesman said, "The club is disappointed by events surrounding Mike Voyle's surprise move to Newport following his insistence on the early termination of his Cardiff contract in favour of emigrating to New Zealand.

"An agreement was reached between Cardiff and Mike on compassionate grounds following his plea to restart his life with his New Zealand wife.

"To hear of this latest move via the media is particularly disappointing given the level of support shown to Mike over this issue and those faced during his difficulties last season." Newport team manager Jim McCreedy said, "We had assurances no documentation prevented Mike from playing for another club and cleared it with the WRU that he had no commitment to Cardiff.

"It would be wrong of me to comment if there is anything personal between Cardiff and Mike Voyle. But we have acted in good faith on this."

Seven players will make their Pandy Park debuts for Cross Keys in the Welsh First Division club's friendly against Oakdale on Thursday (7pm).

They are full back Rhys Potter, centre David Price, wing Graham Thomas, half backs Gareth Worgan and Gareth Spain as well as forwards Christian Penny and Dean Gibbs. Keys: R Potter, C Arnold, R Davies, D Price, G Thomas, G Worgan, G Spain, I Evans, L Gardner, G Stroud, C Penny, K Stewart, A Gibbs, D Gibbs, P Watkins. Replacements from rest of squad. Meet 6pm.

Australia have confirmed a Millennium Stadium date with Wales on November 24 as part of their four test Autumn tour of Europe.

First published on Wednesday 22 August 2001: