Blues Prepare For Osprey Backlash

Liberty Stadium
By Andrew Collins
February 28 2006

The Blues take on the Ospreys on Friday night, as the Neath/Swansea region arrive at the capital with revenge on their minds. The Blues beat Lynn Jones' men in their own back yard before christmas, and now the O's want to do the same to Cardiff.

It was a game many fans considered the best for many years. The Blues first ever away win over a Welsh region came against the Celtic League Champions during a time of no internationals or Lions tests. It was a game that lit hope for the loyal Blues fans, and many beleived it to be a turning point in not just their season, but their existance.

Since then, there has been just 1 win, home against teh Dragons the previous week. After that, it has one dissapointment after another, crashing out of Europe, numerous Celtic losses and a squad that seems low on form and confidence.

This weeks visit from the west-Walians has massive importance, as well documented, the Blues haven't won in 2006, and by Friday, we'll be in March. That's a record that needs to be changed.

Team news so far is unclear. With the WRU releasing 8 Scarlets for their Powergen semi-final clash, its not known whether other players will be allowed to turn out for Celtic matches.

Gavin Henson and Shane Williams are both available for the O's, but it's though both Duncan and Adam Jones will be kept by Scott Johnsen.

From a Blues point of view, Martyn Williams, Rob Sidoli and Rhys Thomas will be rested, but Gethin Jenkins, Mike Phillips, Nick Robinson and the other squad members will be allowed to play.

Wales U21 stars Chris Czekaj, Duane Goodfeild, Dafydd Hewitt and Jamie Roberts won't be available either.

The Blues have missed Robinson, and his return will be a big boost for the region. Nicky played all 4 games over the Christmas period which the Blues won, but since he got injured against the Scarlets, Cardiff have failed to win a single game.

Another problem the Blues will want to over come is their appauling try scoring record. The capital have failed to register a single try in the last 3 appearences. In fact, just 15 points from the last 3 games makes awful reading, especially with the 82 they've leaked.

Fridays match is as big as they come, and Dai will be keen to finally put to bed a dreadful start to 2006.