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It’s set to be a feisty clash in Bridgend on Saturday evening as the Ospreys play the Scarlets
Scarlets players have been scuffling in training this week ahead of their west Wales derby against the Ospreys.
Both sides have little to play for heading into the penultimate match of the season. The Ospreys could lift the Welsh Shield, while the Scarlets are merely aiming to avoid being the lowest-placed Welsh side in the United Rugby Championship.
However, that hasn’t diminished the intensity of Saturday’s derby at the Brewery Field.
Plenty has happened since the two sides met on Boxing Day, with the future of both having been at threat under the Welsh Rugby Union’s plans to reduce the number of professional teams to three.
On Thursday, Ospreys coach Richard Kelly – a former Scarlet – insisted the off-field uncertainty wouldn’t add any extra spice to this weekend’s match, saying there’s already enough edge.
And, judging by how the Scarlets’ week is unfolding, that would appear to be true.
Scarlets interim director of rugby Nigel Davies revealed that things had gone up a level or two in training this week, with some “scuffling” taking place between players.
“It’s always a big fixture against the Ospreys,” said Davies.
“It’s what the supporters want to see. It brings that level of intensity, that passion, the identity. We are nearest and dearest rivals, but we wouldn’t be the same without each other.
“It’s great to have that level of competition. It absolutely brings a different layer to your preparation.
“It’s been interesting this week because it’s the first time I’ve seen a few scuffles in training. That’s a good thing because it shows the boys are getting mentally prepared for what’s ahead.”
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There’s also the added incentive that Wales head coach Steve Tandy will name his squad for the summer next week, handing players one final chance to earn a spot.
“There’s no bigger game for me personally than the Ospreys, the west Walian derby,” said Wales and Scarlets hooker Ryan Elias. “It’s special.
“It’s bragging rights for us as players. It’s also an audition for Wales honours. There’s a lot riding on it as players, but we fully understand it’s also massive for the supporters.”
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