Aberavon had the greater fire and were extremely well marshalled by their veteran captain Allan Martin, producing his best game of the season. His forwards worked hard to get on top and the two halfbacks controlled play admirably and for most of the match it was the difference at halfback that told the tale. Most possession won by Newport in the first half was wasted. Keith James brought in at the last minute had a poor game.

In the second half Aberavon got stronger and Newport faded although one of their players stood out like a beacon and he was Robert Ackerman. Aberavon led at half-time from a Keri Coslett penalty and 12 mins into the half they went further ahead with a Mike Lewis drop goal. 4 mins later Aberavon applied the death blow with wing Kevin James being put over from a ruck 10 yds out .In the 80th min Gary Matthews was put over to wrap up a convincing Aberavon win.