The boys are in Treviso today to face one of the BKT URC’s form sides. It’s going to be a tough battle against Benetton.
Here’s the numbers around the fixture.
The Ospreys have won 16 of their previous 20 BKT URC matches against Benetton Rugby, however, they lost their most recent encounter against the Italian side – each of the last four games between these sides have been decided by margins of just four points or fewer.
Benetton’s recent form against Welsh sides has improved drastically in recent years. Benetton have lost just one of their last seven BKT URC matches against Welsh sides after losing eight in a row against such opposition previously. Their last two victories against Welsh teams came by a single-point 23-22 v Cardiff in October and 21-20 v Ospreys in March.
Only the Lions and Munster have averaged more possession than the Ospreys in the in the league so far while only the Stormers and Ulster have averaged a lower share of possession than Benetton in the league this term.
Rhys Davies has been a nuisance for opposition teams so far this season, winning the joint-most turnovers of any player this season and has also hit the most attacking rucks of any player in the BKT URC. Despite this, Benetton are the current leaders for turnovers per game.
When it comes to stat standouts for Benetton, Ignacio Mendy’s name pops up. He has crossed the gainline from a greater percentage of his carries than any other player in this season’s BKT URC.
We face Benetton next week as we kick off our European season. Join us