COBRA survived a brave fightback from Rhayader to seal their place in the final of the Cambrian Training Mid Wales Cup with a 31-22 victory in Meifod.

The hosts raced into an early lead with No8 Jack Jukes crashing over for a close range try before second row Lloyd Bright fed flanker Dan Jones to add a second try with both converted by Will Worthington.

However the early setback galvanised the Radnorshire side with two tries in the space of five minutes.

Danny Davies and Ben Gaskell combined to release centre Gareth Dodd who stormed to within sight of the try line before Andre Potgieter burst over from close range.

Rhayader were back in the game moments later with a well executed line out move leading to Dodd to release Dillon O’ Leary who beat three home defenders to race half the length of the pitch to cross for a try.

A thrilling end to the half saw COBRA celebrate a third try with prop Nico Williams releasing Jones for his second try of the day with Worthington adding the extras.

However the Rams rallied once more with Jordan Phillips crossing for a try in the final action of the half.

Rhayader led for the first time when South African star Potgieter crossed for his second try of the game early in the second-half.

Fearing the end of their season long unbeaten home record the Meifod side hit back with Bright crossing for a try with Worthington’s conversion settling their nerves.

Worthington added a penalty to provide COBRA a cushion and seal a place in this week’s final in Llanidloes.

Rhayader coach Danny Davies hailed his players for their commitment this season.

Davies said: “It’s been an amazing season. The club was on the brink of folding last year but this season we have turned Mid Wales rugby on its head