🏉 Rugby lovers, what a festive season it’s been! The holiday matches in the United Rugby Championship lit up the stadiums with some nail-biting derbies. Cardiff trumped the Dragons, while the Ospreys edged past the Scarlets in a thriller at Parc y Scarlets. With over 12,000 fans at each game, the atmosphere was electric!
**Winners:**
🌟 **Harri Deaves** – The Ospreys’ dynamo was everywhere, snagging the Player of the Match accolade with his jaw-dropping 24 tackles and some vital turnovers. The 24-year-old has his eyes set on more Wales caps come Six Nations time.
👊 **Justin Tipuric** – Their defensive mastermind, Tipuric, has been a revelation in his first coaching season. The Ospreys’ brilliant defence was epitomised by their staggering 225 tackles, keeping Scarlets and their attacking flair in check.
🚀 **Mason Grady** – At only 23, Grady is proving a key asset for Cardiff. Despite an early spill, his 14 carries, including three clean breaks, show he’s back in form post-injury. He’s one to watch for Steve Tandy’s Six Nations squad!
⚡ **Louis Rees-Zammit** – Leading Bristol Bears to a stunning comeback win, Rees-Zammit crossed for two electric tries. Sliding into a full-back role, the versatile Rees-Zammit is definitely testing the tactics for Wales’ upcoming games.
🥇 **Carmarthen Quins** – A Boxing Day bonanza saw Quins seal a thrilling 22-12 win over Llandovery, securing a table-boosting triumph in the local derby.
**Losers:**
⚠️ **Scarlets** – A tough outing against Ospreys as their promising start yielded no rewards. Despite early dominance, their attack misfired, and this setback has them eyeing a swift comeback against the Dragons.
🔄 **Dragons** – The narrow defeat at Cardiff leaves Dragons reflecting on missed opportunities but with plenty of positives to take forward, especially Che Hope and Ben Carter’s standout performances. A New Year’s clash against Scarlets beckons an exciting chance for redemption.
Let’s see how these teams bounce back in the New Year! Keep an eye out for these rising stars as we edge closer to the Six Nations. 🏆 #RugbyFamily #WelshPride