Ospreys overturn 21-point deficit to stun Connacht and seal bonus-point win

The Ospreys launched their European Challenge Cup campaign with a remarkable 24-21 comeback victory over Connacht at the Brewery Field, overcoming a dire first half and a 21-point deficit to claim a dramatic bonus-point win.

For 40 minutes, the hosts seemed intent on sabotaging their own chances. Connacht, clinical and composed, punished every error as the Ospreys’ inaccuracy mounted. Garyn Phillips endured a torrid opening spell, conceding multiple scrum penalties and eventually being shown a yellow card on 28 minutes for repeat infringements. By then, the visitors were already well on top.

Finlay Bealham powered over for the opening try on 11 minutes after a sustained spell of Connacht pressure, with Seán Naughton converting.

The Irish side doubled their lead when No.8 Sean Jansen crashed over from close range following more soft midfield defence. Moments later, replacement prop Jack Aungier added a third, bundling over as Connacht’s pack continued to dominate. With Naughton flawless from the tee, the Ospreys found themselves 21-0 down and staring at a humiliating evening.

Basic errors compounded their misery.

Twice Dan Edwards failed to find touch with penalties, while a couple of lost lineouts killed rare attacking opportunities. But just before the break, a glimmer of hope emerged.

Ospreys finally managed a clean lineout close to the Connacht line, and after a powerful carry from Sam Parry, Harri Deaves burrowed over to finally get the hosts on the board. Edwards’ missed conversion meant they still trailed 21-5 at half-time, but momentum had at least flickered.

Whatever was said in the dressing room clearly had an effect. The Ospreys came out a transformed side.

Their scrum, boosted by the earlier introduction of Gareth