The weekend brought a mixed bag of results for Welsh rugby clubs in Europe. Here’s the lowdown:
Cardiff faced a tough defeat in Paris, succumbing to Stade Français 38-17. Though they held a 10-5 lead at halftime, with tries from Iwan Stephens and Matty Young, the French side unleashed six tries in total, dominating after the break. Despite Javan Sebastian’s late score, it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.
Over in Llanelli, Scarlets experienced heartbreak with a razor-thin 17-16 loss to Bristol Bears. Viliame Mata’s two early tries put Bristol in control, but a Gareth Davies try and penalties from Sam Costelow kept Scarlets in it. However, Louis Rees-Zammit’s second-half try clinched it for the Bears, despite Scarlets having two potential tries disallowed by the TMO.
The Dragons travelled to Perpignan and were handed a 41-17 defeat. Even with Perpignan reduced to 14 men after a 20-minute red card for a high tackle, the Dragons struggled. They went into halftime 17-0 down and couldn’t recover despite tries from Joe Westwood and Wills Austin (twice).
In stark contrast, the Ospreys pulled off a spectacular comeback against Connacht, winning 24-21. Initially trailing 21-0 after a dismal first half, the Ospreys roared back with gusto. Harri Deaves sparked the revival, followed by tries from Phil Cokanasiga and Ryan Smith. The crowning glory was Iestyn Hopkins’ match-winning try in the 75th minute, sealing a bonus-point victory and capping off a thrilling turnaround.
The weekend might have been tough for some, but the Ospreys’ stunning comeback is the shining beacon of hope Welsh rugby needs right now! What a match! 🏉🎉 #WelshRugby #OspreysWin