Webb’s fit for Wales as Ospreys march on

RHYS WEBB declared himself 100 per cent fit for Wales’ Six Nations opener with Italy after playing the first half of the Ospreys’ dramatic Anglo-Welsh Cup victory over Bristol.

Webb captained his side in Bridgend, but was substituted at the break as next week’s trip to Rome looms into view.

The scrum-half, who has played just 97 minutes of rugby since recovering from a serious ankle injury suffered against Australia in November, did the basics well during his time on the field and believes he is now ready to make the step up to international rugby.

Webb said: “I’ve played two games and haven’t felt like I needed to come off. I feel confident. I know my own body, what I can do and believe I’m 100 per cent fit.

“International rugby is a step-up, but I’ve been training really well with the boys. I’ll go back into the squad on Monday and will see what happens. I’ve had a break and injuries seem to happen all the time with me. But I’m motivated, fit, and raring to go.”

While all eyes were on Webb, the Ospreys were indebted to a late try from Bath-bound flanker Sam Underhill to secure a victory they just about deserved against a full-strength Bristol side.

Underhill powered over at the death to seal a gutsy success which had looked in doubt when Marc Jones gave Bristol the lead with just seven minutes to go. Billy Searle had converted Jones’ effort to put the visitors 14-13 up but with Webb watching on from the stands, the Welsh side had the last laugh.

A huge forward surge saw Underhill emerge from a pile of bodies for the winning try and when Luke Price converted, the Ospreys could celebrate extending their winning run to 11 matches.

Steve Tandy’s men turned around 10-7 up, Dafydd Howells’ opener and a conversion and penalty from Price the response to a converted Bristol try from Max Crumpton.

A tight second period was dominated by the forwards, but the Ospreys more than matched Bristol’s set-piece power.

Webb added: “We knew it was going to be a test for us but I told the boys to go out there and enjoy it. They produced a cracking performance against a quality Bristol side.”

Bristol boss Mark Tainton said: “We are frustrated and disappointed.

“We weren’t at the races from the start and we gave them too much field position. We got back into the game but we need to be smarter, close these games out and not give stupid penalties away.”