The day may have ended in tears, but Newtown's big day at Cardiff Arms Park will live in the memories of all those who made the pilgrimage to the home of Welsh rugby.

More than 1,000 people travelled down to the National Stadium to roar Newtown Rugby Club on in the final of the Welsh Brewers Cup - the most prestigious competition for the minnows of the game.

And although mighty Hartridge High School Old Boys lifted the trophy after a thrilling encounter, Newtown's heroes did themselves, their supporters and the whole of the Town proud.

Newtown had already made history by becoming the first team from Mid Wales to make the final - shaking the game at its South Wales roots by beating favourites St. Albans in the semi-final.

They went into the final as underdogs, but their Newport opponents soon realised they were dealing with a doberman rather than a border collie.

Inspired by their tremendous support, Newtown battled throughout but it was Hartridge who always maintained a winning edge. Nevertheless, there was a nail-biting climax as Newtown had opportunities to level the core from penalty kicks. Both went wide and, as everyone admitted after the final whistle, the cup deservedly went to Hartridge.

Defeat is never easy to take in a cup final, but amid tears of disappointment the excellent spirit the whole event attracted continued as supporters united in applauding the efforts of both teams. For victorious Hartridge, it was a case of third time lucky in the final.