NEWPORT RFC hopes of a double were ended on Thursday night when Cardiff clinched the Premiership title.

The Black and Ambers won the Premiership Cup at Principality Stadium last Sunday and needed the leaders to slip up against Merthyr to stand a chance of claiming top spot in the league.

However, the Blue and Blacks made no mistake and romped to a five-try 31-12 success at the Arms Park.

Newport, who were in control of the league until a lengthy injury list led to costly defeats to RGC and Merthyr at Spytty Park, have enjoyed a superb season that ends at Carmarthen Quins on Sunday (kick-off 2pm).