Newport exceeded the wildest expectations of just about everyone by forcing league champions Swansea into extra time in a thriller at the National Stadium. The cup-tie never should have got so far because Newport ought to have won it by full time as a second half onslaught had Swansea rocking. Newport took a deserved lead when David Llewellyn powered over to make a 9-6 lead and with the pack playing magnificently to snuff Swansea out, Newport looked poised for a shock victory. Roger Bidgood was over-hauled after an interception, Alan Harries was tackled into touch in goal and Paul Turner missed a kickable penalty and Swansea were let off the hook. Back they came for Aled Williams to kick an equalizing penalty goal 7 minutes from time. Once extra-time was certain Swansea were always going to win against a Newport team containing four players with fitness doubts before the match but to concede three tries - the second from Richard Webster and others from Paul Arnold and Williams was rough justice on a courageous Newport.