Ospreys' stirring win over league leaders 'a lovely thing' for Ifan Phillips as it comes on his birthday

Ospreys coach Toby Booth says the victory over league leaders Edinburgh meant that much more coming on the birthday of Ifan Phillips.

Hooker Phillips, who turned 25 on Saturday, had to have a leg amputated after a motorbike accident last month, ending his hugely promising rugby career.

Booth admitted it had been a very emotional time for the squad after what had happened to the popular son of ex-Wales international Kevin Phillips.

So the 23-19 win over the United Rugby Championship table toppers was even sweeter as thoughts turned to their former team-mate.

“It means a lot because as a group we’ve gone through quite a lot in the last couple of months,” said Booth.

“I think that’s a great sign-off for what has been a very, very difficult and emotional block for everyone involved with the club.

“It’s great that it’s on Ifan’s birthday which is a lovely thing for him. That sort of performance represented him I thought.”

The Ospreys trailed 14-3 at half-time, but turned things around in stirring fashion after the break to end a five-match losing run.

“The one thing I would say about this group is they never back down, they always keep going,” said Booth.

“What has happened in a lot of the games where we have come second is we haven’t won the key moments and today we did that.”

Booth said having the likes of Gareth Anscombe, Stephen Myler and man of the match Rhys Webb on the pitch in the tense closing stages was a big factor.

“There is no substitute for that level of experience,” he said. "When your leaders step up and give you confidence, the confidence grows around the group.

“The fans made a massive difference as well and the cheer at the end said it all.”

Giving his thoughts, skipper Webb commented: “It’s a huge win,