Newport eased into the British and Irish Cup play-off final with a comprehensive 31 v 5 victory over Tonmawr at Rodney Parade.
The Black and Ambers will travel the short distance to Pandy Park to play Cross Keys on Thursday evening (7.15) in a match that will determine Wales’ final place in next season’s cross-border competition.
Newport did all the damage in a superb first-half, setting up a Gwent derby finale against Cross Keys next week.
Stalwart hooker Andrew Brown barged over for the hosts early on before teenager Elliot Wheaton came off his wing to touch-down and put Newport comfortably ahead.
Opposite wing Owen Broad soon followed suit, speeding over in the corner whilst metronomic fly-half Gareth Bowen, continued his tremendous form, nudging all three conversions and a penalty.
Sven Cronk’s side did not want the half to end, but they finished it in fine style nonetheless, with a stunning effort from Wales Under 20’s scrum-half John Evans. The 18-year-old took the ball under pressure in his own half, but saw the gaps in front of him and beat four tacklers to dive over, with Bowen adding the extras.
Tonmawr’s task was near impossible after going in 31 v 0 down at the break, but they did restore some pride as wing Steffan Andrews found space to burrow over in the corner.
The Pitmen continued to push for more points, but Newport’s strong defence held out to triumph 31 v 5.
The Black and Ambers can look forward to a thrilling conclusion to their season, whilst Tonmawr can reflect on a very respectable first campaign back in the Premiership.
