JONES: STRESS TAKING ITS TOLL

OSPREYS head coach Mark Jones praised the resilience of his players after the dramatic events of last week that plunged the region's future into doubt.

- MATHEW DAVIES

The Welsh Rugby Union's decision to announce a cut to three teams over the coming years, with just one based in West Wales, has sparked a period of huge anxiety as players and staff fear for their livelihoods.

The development came little more than 24 hours before the Ospreys were facing the Dragons in a Welsh derby at Rodney Parade, a match that ended in a 19-19 draw.

Jones admitted the club is in the midst of a serious and stressful situation, but praised the player leadership group ahead of the game against the Dragons.