Smith praises success of inexperienced Ospreys

Matthew Dwyer went over in the 79^th minute to secure a dramatic 13-10 success at the Rec, with Sam Davies contributing a conversion and two penalties to see the Ospreys home.

And acting forwards coach Smith believes the impressive display could provide the perfect platform as the Welsh side look to maintain their lead at the top of the GUINNESS PRO12 table, with fixtures against the three sides directly below them - Glasgow Warriors, Leinster and Munster - on the horizon.

"It's a great win for us, and I think it's a big moment in the development of this group," Smith told the South Wales Evening Post.

"We spoke last week that being plucky losers isn't good enough at the Ospreys and that we needed to make that step.

"The way we ended the game shows the resolve and determination in this squad, which still has a fair bit of inexperience right through it.

"A win like this gives us a little bit of momentum going into a tough match against Edinburgh on Friday, and with it the confidence and belief to see the job through."

Smith's period in charge of the forwards finished with the final whistle at the weekend, and his attention is now at least partially restored to his rehab from a long-term knee injury that has seen him out of action since September 2013.

"I haven't given up my hope just yet," he added.

"I owe it to myself to give it my best shot to try to get back as fit as I can be.

"Once I get to that stage and my knee tells me either I can or can't play, I'll make a decision, but at least it will be my decision to make."

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