The Young Ospreys under 18 team maintained their unbeaten Reebok tag as they narrowly beat the Blues by 19 points to 13 at Llanharan RFC last night (Wednesday).
Despite the horrendous conditions (wind and rain) a good playing surface at the Dairy Field encouraged both sides to attempt and play some expansive rugby. However, on occasions both sides were guilty of unforced errors because of their approach. Scoring a try on your home pitch in an away fixture was achieved by flanker Bill Carey (Llanharan Youth) and it gave the Young Ospreys the lead. Then prop forward Gareth Jenkins was rewarded for an excellent nights effort as he grabbed the next try from a driving lineout; outside half Matthew Jarvis converted. At this stage the Young Osprey coaching staff would have probably settled for a half time lead of 12 points to nil as they had a substantial wind at their backs. But, the Blues made sure it would be a difficult second half when a try by Prop Kyle Perry reduced the score to a 7 point lead. The Young Ospreys were backs to the wall as within 5 minutes of the restart wing Josh Davies scored a try in the corner following an intelligent kick ahead. It was a nervous and tense affair until centre Ashley Beck (pictured) scored a try which his centre partner Kristian Phillips converted. A nine point lead seemed impregnable until replacement outside half Joe Deacon kicked a superb penalty to ensure that the Young Ospreys would endure an uncomfortable last 5 minutes. In fairness to them they desperately hung on with excellent committment and organisation in their defence to thwart the Blues for a second night on the trot.