Head Coach Sean Holley will take the positives out of a performance that almost saw the Ospreys secure a victory that would have been unexpected in most quarters.
“I’m very proud of the all round effort that we saw tonight” said Holley post-match.
“The players executed a game plan and it very nearly paid off.
“We lacked a bit of accuracy in the final third, especially with some lineouts and kicks, but our attacking shape was good and we threatened one of the best defences in the league on numerous occasions, in the first half especially.
“I thought we were very good defensively, we held what was just about their European team to no tries, an aspect of the game which is very pleasing and augurs well moving forward but we’ll look at ourselves and rue some missed chances.
“We lost a bit of rhythm in the period just after half time by giving away some silly penalties, but by and large our work at the contact area was pleasing and I thought the referee controlled a close game very well.
“We are especially happy with the leadership of our young captain tonight and the way that the more senior players rallied around him, as well as the way in which the younger players stepped up.
“Despite the loss, the feeling is still positive, definitely, and one of a game we should have won. The spirit in the squad is confident and determined, and next week’s training will certainly be interesting.”