The death knell sounded for Newcastle Emlyn who fought for their lives against Trebanos at the top of the Swansea Valley but were defeated 17-15 and relegated after their final outing of a fourth season in the WRU Championship.

Although unable to pull off a win and score four tries for a bonus point the visitors could count themselves unfortunate to lose after dominating for lengthy periods.

Emlyn led by a point with three minutes remaining but conceded a penalty and centre Christian Jones put the ball between the uprights to win the game.

With No. 8 Brynmor Jones in rip-roaring form and given excellent support by his fellow forwards Emlyn held their own playing into a strong wind during the opening 40 minutes.

Trebanos drew first blood when centre Tom Dew landed a penalty but the Teifisiders replied through fullback Shaun Leonard who broke through for a try converted by winger Daniel Davies.

Another couple of Dew penalties gave the homesters a 9-7 lead at half time.

Soon after the restart Leonard went over wide out for his second try but fullback Luke Griffiths touched down to regain the home advantage.

Back came Emlyn with a Daniel Davies penalty to put them ahead but then came that late penalty to give Trebanos victory.

Afterwards Trebanos life member Clive Thomas said: “Newcastle Emlyn were very unlucky. They played really well and deserved to win.”

Emlyn, who won seven and lost 15 during the season, will ply their trade in League 1 West next term where they will be involved in local derby encounters with Crymych.