In a hard fought match at an atmospheric Merthyr RFC the Young Ospreys under 16's lost by a point to Blues North.
It was a lovely fresh evening for playing rugby but unfortunately the heavy dew made for a slippery ball and both teams were guilty of basic handling errors. Statistically the Blues had a territorial advantage over the game, however, the better rugby movements were created by the Young Ospreys. However, they were only able to take one of the chances which they created and that was a try for wing Deke Morse. Morse ran 85 metres after excellent defence by the Young Osprey backs forced a handling error and he seized on the loose ball. His try was converted by outside half Kristian Phillips.
The Blues first points of the game were scored with the last kick of the half (outside half Joshua Jones) while the Young Ospreys were down to 14 men after Phillips received a harsh yellow card. In fairness to the 14 players it was the only score they conceeded, however, the Blues eventually got their reward for territorial advantage with a late try by wing Dafydd Hicks.
This was certainly the best performance of the season by the Young Ospreys and if they continue to improve it is still possible to qualify for the Reebok Final on February 28th.
Next up for the Young Ospreys under 16's is a home fixture against the Blues South at Llandarcy Academy for Sport on Wednesday November 1st. The kick off is scheduled for 2.30 so that players and supporters will be able to watch the Ospreys v Australia fixture which takes place the same evning.