Irish test will show if Ospreys can fly this season

OSPREYS have made a great start to the season – but we will know exactly where they are after two weekends in Ireland.

The biggest difference is that the Ospreys have been clinical and became the first team to take tryscoring bonus points in six successive games in the Pro`12.

I fully expected them to see-off Zebre but the performance at Connacht was particularly impressive.

Galway is such a tricky place to go and Connacht were coming off the back of a big loss. But the Ospreys kept their composure and control, with Sam Davies and Rhys Webb kicking really well. And when they needed it, the team had another gear to win the game.

It was a mature performance but the big test is coming over the next fortnight. Next Friday night they go to Leinster and then a week later, face Ulster at Kingspan Stadium.

It will be a massive test of their credentials against two of the perennial contenders. But I would argue there is no better time to play them.

Ospreys are bouncing and full of confidence after their wins so far.

They have that winning mentality and have players being steadily filtered back in who will only strengthen the squad.

Dublin is not as intimidating as it once was and this Leinster side are nowhere near the team that dominated Europe with the likes of Brian O’Driscoll, Gordon D’Arcy and Rocky Elsom.

Arguably Ulster in Belfast is a far tougher proposition.

They are many people’s pick to win the title this season and have clearly signed one of the best players in the competition in Charles Piutau.

But when the Ospreys are in full flight, they are a match for anyone and if they can win in Belfast, they can win anywhere in the Pro12.