Despite enjoying a strong amount of attacking phases, a young Ospreys side lost to a clinical Montpellier team in France.
The game got off to a physical start with some big tackles flying in from both teams, the pick of the bunch being a perfectly timed hit from Harri Deaves following a kick chase.
As we passed 10 minutes, Montpellier were able to get the first points on the board. A penalty near the try line and a resultant sin bin for the Ospreys gave Montpellier an overlap on the left in the following phase and George Bridge was able to finish. Garbisi converted, 7-0.
The Ospreys were having a strong share of territory and possession in the first 20 minutes but Montpellier’s defence was standing strong.
As we passed the 20-minute mark, Montpellier scored their second. A cross field kick landed into the grateful of arms of George Bridge who finished for his second. The home team were making use of their 22 entries early on. 12-0 to the home side
Montpellier scored again with their next entry into the Ospreys 22, this time Leo Coly coming away with the try. George was also sent to the sin bin in the same sequence. Garbisi’s conversion was successful, 19-0.
Before the break, the Ospreys ventured into Montpellier’s 22 again but some solid tryline defence eventually resulted in a turnover and the French team were able to close out the half. Plenty of territory for the boys, but they were missing that killer instinct in the opposition 22 that has served them well so far this season.
HALF TIME – MONTPELLIER HERAULT 19, OSPREYS 0.
TRY FOR OSPREYS! The boys came out with a spring in their step in the early stages and were able to come away with a try from their first trip inside the Montpellier 22 of the second half. Montpellier did well to stop a rolling maul near their line but a smart pop pass from Dewi gave Reuben the opportunity to finish which he took with both hands. Conversion missed, 19-5 Montpellier.
Montpellier answered right back with a score of their own. The rolling maul doing the damage before Vano Karkadze finishes. Garbisi converted, 26-5.
With 15 minutes to go, Auguste Cadot powered his way over for a try to the add to the Montpellier lead. Conversion made, 33-5.
Cadot was able to score again before the final whistle, taking advantage of the Ospreys’ third sin bin of the game. 38-5.
