Steve Tandy declares first ever Premier 4x4 Ospreys Challenge a huge success after a good turnout at the Gnoll watches region’s four senior clubs go head to head with an Ospreys team.
Sandwiched between games against Worcester last weekend and Saracens this coming Thursday, the event was considered an important part of the pre-season preparations, after an evening that saw the Ospreys secure three wins and a draw, Tandy was quick to sing the praises of a concept that went down well on and off the field in Neath.
“I really enjoyed it” he said.
“It’s been a good experience for what was largely a very young team, and in particular our young tight five. They experienced something new every 20 minutes. It was good for the boys and it was good for the Premiership guys and Swansea. All in all it was good night for Ospreys Rugby.
“We’ve learned a lot about some of the younger guys. We’ve already spoken, said that we have to be more ruthless in what we do, stepping up the ladder, but ultimately we are pleased overall.
“It’s been a great event for us. Ultimately it’s about the rugby but it’s a chance for the guys who are going to Saracens to be around our supporters and that’s been a positive experience. It’s something we’ve really enjoyed.
“I’m sure that everyone will take something out of this and we are extremely grateful to Neath for hosting tonight and to the other three clubs as well for buying into what has been a fantastic evening for everybody.
“It was challenging, and for the younger guys it was an opportunity to experience something different. I don’t think it would have been good if we’d played one team for 80 minutes, I liked the fact that there were fresh teams coming at them, it was something different. All in all, we did keep the ball for large periods but we should have been more clinical.
“Attention turns now to Saracens on Thursday night. The group have been working towards that over the last three days, Morgan Allen is the only one who will probably come from tonight and feature in that. It’s been a frantic week but it’s been a really good one, one I’ve really enjoyed. It’s been busy but it’s something we feel we’ve got a benefit out of.”