Five things Welsh rugby learned as two regions nilled in URC

Ospreys impressed on their first outing at their temporary home in Bridgend as they swept aside Zebre Parma with a 24-0 convincing win.

Mark Jones’ side will be based at the Brewery Field this season while St Helen’s in Swansea is being redeveloped and even a small but noisy crowd of 4,519 created an arguably better atmosphere than the often empty stands of Swansea.com Stadium.

“I grew up here so I love playing here,” said Bridgend-born Dewi Lake, who captained Ospreys.

“We have had some very memorable wins here over the last couple of years and this one certainly goes up there.

“To nil a team like Zebre, who had started the season as quickly as they had, is excellent for us.”

Wales forward James Ratti, one of the try-scorers, says the players are enjoying their new surroundings.

“The atmosphere was great, it’s becoming a little mini cauldron for us,” he said.

“We have the fans right on top of us and now it’s always a good experience playing here.”