Ospreys snatch victory from Harlequins at the death

The Ospreys narrowly avoided what would have been a surprise home defeat to Harlequins in the EDF Energy Cup match at Liberty Stadium on Sunday. A late try from Tommy Bowe, followed by a crucial conversion from James Hook, was the difference between the two sides in the end.

Ospreys coach Sean Holley admitted there were a few bruised egos as the star studded side snatched victory by 24-23 as Hook’s injury-time conversion flew through the uprights.

Harlequins, who were missing several key Guinness Premiership starters, were dejected at the final whistle after having done so well to comeback from being 14-3 down to outscore Ospreys Ospreys 20-10 in the second half. And with a few minutes in the match left, it looked like the celebrations would be theirs.

"It was a classic get out of jail situation”, said Holley.

“It was a bit too close for comfort. Quins deserve a lot of credit - they were very tenacious - and there are clearly elements of the game for us to work on.

"Perhaps everyone in the world, except the 22 guys in the Quins dressing room, expected a 50-pointer. We are making no excuses. We were really tested, but apart from an injury to Sonny Parker, there were no other problems, just a few bruised egos."

Bowe’s late try meant that they were one behind, with the conversion to come from Hook, who had been struggling with his kicking all match.


Time: 02:25