Halfpenny crossed in the 28th minute to put the Welsh region 5-3 ahead but full back Ben Blair was struggling with the boot and missed two penalties and a conversion before finally breaking his duck with a penalty on the stroke of half time.

Walder extended Wasps advantage with a fourth penalty shortly after the break but Cardiff gradually began to convert their superior territory into points and after a Blair penalty, prop Jenkins went over for a converted try with 11 minutes left.

Once again Walder brought the English side back into the match, kicking his fifth penalty with eight minutes left before missing a vital penalty in the 77th minute.

But Wasps rarely looked like breaching a stubborn Blues backline with ball in hand and ultimately fell short.

And Blues coach Dai Young paid tribute to his front line at Adams Park, insisting his charges fully deserve a trophy for their efforts over the season.

“Apart from the scrum, we were on top throughout,” said Young. “At the end it could’ve gone either way but overall we were on top and we’re thrilled to have won.

“Conditions dictated you had to roll your sleeves up but the forwards were outstanding and it’s a fantastic result.

“I’m thrilled for the board and the supporters who travelled down, but most of all the players.

“Obviously we had silverware with the EDF Energy Cup last year and that’s where we want to be every season, winning trophies.”