Ospreys U18s fell to a disappointing defeat in their opening game of the U18s regional block at the Talbot Athletic Ground in Aberavon.
Cardiff started the stronger of the two sides with the advantage of the wind behind them in the first half. After a brilliant 50/22 kick from Morgan Bowen, their early pressure paid off when hooker Saul Hurley found his way over the try line off the back of a driving maul.
The young Ospreys played themselves into the game, led by an excellent defensive display from number eight Morgan Morse.
The home side did reply when Llien Morgan chased down Ben Thomas’ box kick and won the aerial duel before sprinting over the try line to level the scores.
Cardiff had the better of the breakdown and when were awarded a penalty five metres out which was easily converted by Jacob Symes.
Moments before the end of the first period the away side extended their lead, after good hands from their backs, Jack Davies straightened the line and passed to Ben Geraghty who finished well in the corner.
Half time: Ospreys U18s 5 – 13 Cardiff Rugby U18s
The Ospreys improved during the second period, proving to be more of an attacking threat.
Their lineout which was solid all game won a penalty just inside their own half. Outside half Rhys Harris kicked the penalty to within 10 metres off the Cardiff try line. The forwards went through the phases and managed to push their way over the try line, however Dai Francis was held up by the Cardiff defence.
The home side left tries out on the pitch, the most noticeable being when Kian Abraham broke through the Cardiff defence and created a two on one opportunity but a good take down from the visitors halted him in his tracks.
Cardiff worked their way into the second period and should’ve scored another try when replacement hooker Gavin Parry looked destined to score, only for Morse to dislodge the ball from his hands in a superb last-ditch tackle.
In the last play of the match, the away side scored their third try of the match after a mistake in the Ospreys backline turned the ball over and Ben Geraghty crossed for his second of the match.
The Ospreys will be back in action next Wednesday as they travel to face Dragons U18s.
Full time: Ospreys U18s 5 – 18 Cardiff Rugby U18s
Match Report by Tobias Hunt