Llanelli Scarlets 6 Neath-Swansea Ospreys 23

By Paul
September 15 2004

Gavin Henson claimed 13 points in a virtuoso individual performance as Neath-Swansea Ospreys their first ever West Walian derby win.

As for Llanelli Scarlets they failed miserably to live up to their champions tag, devoid of any ideas.

Gareth Jenkins hotly tipped to assist Lions coach Clive Woodward in New Zealand could only look on as his side were out-battled by the visitors.

Henson notably will take most of the plaudits, with his 13 point haul, including a a notable individual effort, where a fly hack down field caused mayhem amongst the scarlet defence, allowing Henson to capitalise on a slip from Aisea Havili

A dull opening, which saw Henson and debutant Arwel Thomas exchange penalties, burst into life when Selesi Finau was shown yellow for a stamp on Duncan Jones.

The visitors almost took advantage straight away with young fly-half Matthew Jones cutting through the midfield, but the ball was spilled five yards from the home line and the chance was lost.

Wales wing Shane Williams missed a glorious opportunity after a break from centre David Bishop gave him the simplest of chances, only for Williams to spill the ball

A third Henson penalty made it 9-6 to the Ospreys at half-time, coach Lyn Jones would have been frustrated that his side had not punished the Scarlets further, having enjoyed the Lions’ share of possession.

The damp and windy conditions continued to put pay to any hope of seeing expansive rugby, with the Ospreys spilling the ball in threatening positions near the home line.

Though there were few excuses for Gavin Henson, as he pulled a short-range penalty wide after 52 minutes.

However the full back was soon to make up for it minutes later, punishing sloppy Scarlet defending from Aisea Havilli to collect his own kick and score.


More confusion in the home ranks caused primarily by Shane Williams, saw flanker Richie Pugh score his sides second try of the night.

Late Llanelli attacks proved in vein, as any come back failed to materialise.