Cardiff head coach, Corniel van Zyl, has challenged his side to back up their dramatic comeback win over the Scarlets with a far more complete performance when they host the Ospreys in a crucial derby clash this coming Saturday ( 7pm KO ). 

Despite the late heroics last time out, Van Zyl admitted large parts of that display fell short of the standards required – particularly through the middle period of the game.

“We spoke a lot about that middle 60 minutes… what we wanted to do against Scarlets was to apply pressure on them, which we couldn’t,” he said. “We spoke a lot about how we exit from our half and do it more effectively and then hopefully be more disciplined so they don’t get easy entries.”

Those improvements will be vital against an Ospreys side arriving in strong form after their win over the Sharks, and with a recent record in this fixture that Cardiff are keen to address.

Reflecting on the previous meeting between the sides, Van Zyl was blunt: “They basically physically dominated us in all aspects of the game. That was definitely one of our worst performances this season in terms of what we want to achieve and what we pride ourselves on.”

He expects a similar test this time, highlighting the Ospreys’ set-piece strength and dangerous backline. “We know what’s coming… They’ve got a good set-piece and potent backs on the counter-attack. We have to be very good in that area to keep them at bay.”

Van Zyl reserved special praise for Alun Lawrence, whose consistency continues to anchor the Blue & Blacks.

“Alun is just a machine, isn’t he? He just keeps on going… he’s the glue in our team. He’s consistently putting out very good performances, which is remarkable.”

Cardiff, currently sitting seventh and firmly in the playoff hunt, will at least take confidence from home advantage with an expected sell out at the Arms Park. Van Zyl senses a growing energy within the squad despite a short turnaround.

“Playing at home excites us. The players are excited… by Friday they’ll be ready.”