NEWPORT came close to pulling off a major shock against high-flying Carmarthen but ultimately exited the Swalec Cup after a brave and battling performance out west.

The Black and Ambers, struggling at the foot of the Premiership produced a fine, attacking performance throughout, but were undone by a second half comeback from Quins who had trailed by 11 points at one stage.

The home side began the game the stronger but had only Craig Evans’ third minute penalty to show for it when Newport prop Dai Pattison powered across the line after 23 minutes. Geraint O’Driscoll then converted to put the away side in front.

Iolo Evans’ try put Quins back in front shortly after, before namesake Craig kicked over to make it 10-7.

Newport responded quickly and Llwarch ap Myrddin kept up his run of scoring form, racing over after an excellent link up with Barney Nightingale in the right corner. O’Driscoll kicked superbly from a tight angle to add a further twist to a thrilling encounter.

Dom Franchi added Newport’s third minutes later, after sustained pressure down the middle led to the ball being recycled wide right for Franchi to race home from 10 yards out.

O’Driscoll converted a simpler kick this time around to put Newport into a 21-10 lead, but that was as good as things got for the away side.

Craig Evans kicked a penalty on the stroke of half-time to reduce the deficit to eight points for Carmarthen, beginning the second-half comeback that was to follow.

Evans added a penalty from distance not long after the restart to bring Quins to within one score, but it was not until the 57 th minute that Carmarthen regained the lead.

Rhys Williams intercepted a stray Newport pass in the middle of the park to score a stunning effort, before the ever reliable Evans kicked to restore the advantage.

Dion Jones added what was to be the final try five minutes later following Jason Harries’ breakaway and a further Evans kick sealed the tie.

Newport fought to the end, but an unlikely upset was not to be, and Carmarthen progress to the semi-finals.

Scorers- Carmarthen Quins - Tries ; I.Evans,R.Williams,D.Jones. Cons : C.Evans (3). Pens ; Evans (3) Newport ; Tries : D.Pattison,L.ap Myrddion,D.Franchi. Cons ;'; G.O'Driscoll (3).