The Blues made it through to the National League Cup semi-final thanks to a try from Kieran Mitchell in the final play of the match at a dreich and windy Beveridge Park.

Kirkcaldy hosted Berwick for the second time in March, looking to put right the 25-46 league defeat four weeks ago. A number of changes were made in the backs, which included Gavin McKenzie making a return at scrum-half for his first game since December.

Like the previous encounter Kirkcaldy started well and opened the scoring. Good work by the forwards 5 metres out allowed Rhys Bonner to break through and stretch for the try line, converted by Fin Smith for a 7-0 lead after 6 minutes.

Although Berwick threatened, an improved Kirkcaldy defence held firm and eventually managed move upfield. Steve Milne secured lineout ball in the opposition 22 before strong running by Rory Brown allowed Connor Wood to score the second try, again converted by Smith for 14-0.

It wasn't all plain sailing though as penalties were being conceded. The referee's patience wore thin following warnings, which led to captain Fin Smith being sent to the sin-bin on 28 minutes after a high tackle. The visitors next attack was thwarted and the ball taken up to halfway, but a loose pass allowed Berwick's number 13 to collect and run in to get his side on the scoreboard. Despite this setback Kirkcaldy kept up their solid defence and once back to 15 men continued to do well in attack, though it remained 14-5 at half-time.

Berwick began the second half brighter and on 47 minutes reduced the deficit, a lineout maul in the Kirkcaldy 22 eventually producing a try which was converted, 14-12. They came closest to scoring again, but were twice held up over the try line. The game went from end to end as Kirkcaldy also had opportunities in the Berwick 22 however the ball was lost through mistakes or giving away penalties.

The visitors finally took one of their chances just after Kirkcaldy had squandered their best attacking position of the half, breaking up the field for a try to make it 14-17 on 70 minutes. Although The Blues kept fighting, with Seb Evans being held up over the try line, Berwick cleared their lines to halfway.

It appeared they would see out the clock, but a misplaced pass gave possession back to Kirkcaldy for the final play. The forwards brought the ball up towards the line, giving Fin Smith the chance to pass out wide to Kieran Mitchell to dive over in the corner, sparking celebrations of delight and relief after a hard fought game of two halves.

Kirkcaldy now play Hillhead Jordanhill of National 3 on 5th April for a place in the final at Murrayfield two weeks later, with GHK and Gordonians contesting the other semi.