Bargoed’s relegation to the Welsh Championship was confirmed on Saturday, April 20 after a 42-26 defeat to Merthyr.
The Bulls travelled to face the league leaders in a game that was televised live on S4C.
The visitors started brightly and scored first after scrum-half James Leadbeater crossed the line for a try. Josh Prosser converted for the two extra points.
But after 25 minutes, Merthyr drew level when Richard Powell converted an Andrew Murphy try.
Bargoed then restored their lead when Jordan Howells intercepted to score their second try.
But Merthyr drew level when Kyle Evans scored the reigning champion’s second try of the game.
Powell converted the try to give Merthyr a two-point lead going into half-time.
The second half got underway with Bargoed conceding a penalty, which Merthyr kicked to the corner.
The hosts then drove the resulting lineout and went through the phases, eventually putting Ben Murphy over for a try, which was converted by Powell.
But Bargoed were given a boost when Merthyr back-rower Jack Perkins was sent to the sin bin in the 52nd minute for an illegal clear out.
Bargoed took advantage as winger Ashley Norton scored his sides’ third try.
Prosser kicked the conversion with Merthyr’s lead being cut to just two points with 25 minute left.
After Perkins had returned to the field, Merthyr retook the lead when winger Tom James set up Josh Martin to score try number four to secure a bonus point.
Powell’s conversion gave the league leaders a 28-19 lead.
Momentum stayed with Merthyr, who increased their lead five minutes later when Martin scored his second try of the game, which Powell successfully converted.
And then Merthyr added the sixth try when Adam Thomas scored a try, which was converted by Rhys Davies.
Bargoed, intent on salvaging a bonus point from the game, spent the last five minutes camped in the Merthyr 22.
The point was secured when Howells scored his second try of the game.
Prosser’s conversion meant the game finished 42-26 to Merthyr, condemning Bargeoed to life in the Welsh Championship next season.
Next up for Bargoed is a home tie with Bridgend on Saturday, April 27.