Jacob Beetham is preparing for what he believes could be one of Cardiff Rugby’s biggest games of the season, as they face Ospreys at Cardiff Arms Park on Friday night.

“It’s going to be a pivotal game for us to try and get the win. Any derby game is an important game and one you want to win, but Friday night lights against the Ospreys. I couldn’t ask for a better occasion.”

With a sell-out crowd expected, the derby comes at a crucial point in the season as Cardiff push for a top eight finish in the United Rugby Championship.  

“I think it might be one of the biggest games of the season to be honest. I think it’s definitely one of the best places when there’s a packed-out crowd,” he added. “I’m looking forward to it.” 

Coming back off the crucial victory against the Scarlets last weekend, Beetham helped his keep their play-off push on track, while also celebrating his 25th birthday.

“I was literally thinking 60 minutes in, ‘oh no it’s gonna be the worst birthday ever,” Beetham explained.

“But no, it was great, it was a really good feeling after coming back the way we did.” 

The victory could prove crucial as the race for the playoff places tightens, with several teams between fourth and ninth separated by just a few points. 

“Given the playoff situation it means that little bit more. It would have killed us if we lost that, especially because we know we’re in that contention for top eight and looking at the leaderboard it is so tight, it was so important to win that game.” 

Cardiff have had a stop start schedule in recent months, with large breaks added throughout the URC calendar. While the rest is often welcomed by the players, Beetham believes a run of games could help build momentum as we reach the crucial stage of the season. 

“I don’t think we’ve had a game back-to-back for a while now. We’ve kind of had breaks here and there,” he said. 

“It’s actually quite nice getting straight back into it, with the momentum from the wins.” 

Having players who can operate in multiple positions has always been a valuable asset for teams and coaches. Beetham, in particular, has been praised for his ability to feature across the backline, spending increasing time on the wing, and says he is happy to play wherever needed.

“Whatever position they’ll play me, I don’t really mind”. 

“I’ll just try and do my best whichever shoe I have on to be honest. A few injuries on the wing as well, so I’m more than happy to play there and try and do the job.” 

“That’s the Brucie bonus of playing that position. You find yourself in more positions to score.” 

Beetham has also gained a reputation for his ability in the air, an increasingly important part of the game now with the amount of tactical kicks.  

“I’ve always had some confidence in competing for the ball, I kind of enjoy it”. 

“It has become a big part of the game and the game is always evolving and changing, so it’s trying to just adapt to whatever is important at the time.” 

With play-off stakes rising and a fierce derby ahead, Cardiff’s clash with Ospreys on Friday night could prove decisive in the race for the top eight.