In terms of possession and territory, the home troops competed gamely - but when it came to turning pressure into precious points the top-flight outfit had the know-how when it mattered.
Another West giant-killing act looked possible as they grabbed the lead with a try by prop Elliot McLaren from close range after a ruck.
But Hawks seized control with a burst of scoring in the build up to the break.
Flanker John Fitzpatrick ploughed through in the 14th minute with Stevie Gordon following suit midway through the half - both scores being goaled by Mike Adamson.
Utility forward Niall Caddell claimed touchdown No3 in the 34th minute to leave West with a major task on their hands.
They set up a series of chances before the break, but made too many mistakes when it mattered most.
Adamson missed two penalty opportunities for Hawks, allowing West to keep their hopes alive.
Their pack continued to battle bravely to pave the way for a controversial finale.
Much to the disgust of West coach Jon Beattie, the referee ordered uncontested scrums because of injuries to Hawks front row players.
As West narrowed the gap with tries by Jan Voss and Ben Wright, along with a conversion by Fraser Sinclair, a real upset looked likely.
But the most potent part of the home side's armoury was nullified by the ruling.
Hawks now face Edinburgh Accies in the Murrayfield final.
You can see some photos from the game here