Before he returns to Bristol Bears after his short term loan, we caught up with Jordan Lay to hear his thoughts on linking up with the Ospreys.
“It’s been an awesome experience. From the first day I arrived here the boys, coaches and backroom staff have all been so warm and welcoming. As soon as I set foot here, everyone introduced themselves and it’s been a really good environment,” he said.
“There was obviously a shortage (of props) and the opportunity presented itself. My agent got in contact and said there’s potentially an opportunity to go and play some minutes and buy into a cool club. I thought give it a crack and see what happens. It’s been a great opportunity to play some rugby, that’s what I love doing, and I’m grateful to have been here.”
The Samoan international signed on a one-month loan to provide much needed cover as the Ospreys were without the four front line loose heads, they began the season with.
“This weekend will be my last weekend with the boys but in my short time here, I’ve learnt a lot and it’s been a great experience for me. The boys have taught me all about the Welsh culture and I’ve really enjoyed my time here.”
During his time at the Ospreys, the loosehead prop has started in the region’s last two home games against Ulster and Munster and is set to feature in this weekend’s crucial game against Connacht.
“I played a couple of those teams last year and I knew they were going to be pretty relentless. They were very physical games against Ulster and Munster, and I know i’ve only played against the Irish teams whilst I’ve been here, but they’ve been games where you want to get stuck in and work hard for the lads.”
Looking ahead to Saturday’s game, he said: “Away games are always tough, having to travel there and put in a solid performance to get the result. Connacht are a tough side, they play expansive rugby and they like to mix it up and play tight as well. We know it’ll be a tough game, but the boys are preparing well and are working hard to get that result on the weekend.”
“Every game is a must win game. Winning is fun, losing is horrible.”
With the Guinness PRO14 taking a three-week break after this weekend, Lay will return to Bristol Bears and return to the Gallagher Premiership.
“I’ll be going back to Bristol after this weekend hoping to push on. Bristol have a few must win games left of the season. Hopefully when I go back, I can look to compete and get some minutes under my belt.
It’s been great to get the game time and be part of the Ospreys. It’s going to be really sad to leave but it’ll be good to go back to Bristol too.”