Scotland missed out on their first senior rugby league trophy as Wales won the European Cup 28-16 at Brewery Field in Bridgend.

In an exciting and expansive game Mick Nanyn registered a first-half hat-trick for Scotland but tries from Ashley Bateman, Elliot Kear and skipper Ben Flower meant the lead was just two points at the interval.

Wales then produced a second-half super show to ensure victory with 14 unanswered points as Christiaan Roets, Lloyd White and Rhys Williams ensured a first European triumph for the hosts since 1995.

Scotland coach Steve McCormack said: “We were in the contest to the end” he said, “but it’s all about taking chances.

“Wales were clinical in a game of small margins and all credit to them, they have a fantastic young team.

“We can really build on this. Scottish rugby league is in great shape, although we are disappointed and don’t like to finish second. These guys have put Scotland RL on the map over the past two years”.