“This is a vital stage of the season and we need to win our remaining two games if we are to be sure of Heineken Cup qualification next season,” said Ospreys coach Lyn Jones. “Galway is a difficult place to secure a win, and Connacht have defeated the other three Welsh regions at home this season. Although we are aware of the size of the task the team will take confidence from our recent performances against Munster and the Scarlets."

This season’s campaign started poorly for the Ospreys, and they have been playing catch-up all year; a far cry from last term’s heroics.

“Last season we secured an away win against Connacht but that was in a Championship winning year and this game comes off the back of a very different season.

“The prize may be somewhat different but it is of no less importance and our determination to succeed will be the same. We have had a good weeks training and although we will look carefully at what they have to offer, our preparations for this match will focus on our strengths."

Five players are unavailable for this fixture. Stave Tandy hopes to recover from a hamstring strain in time to face Ulster, Adrian Cashmore's injury (back disc problem) is under assessment, Brent Cockbain (hamstring), David Bishop (knee) and Ryan Jones (shoulder) have begun rehabilitation but will not play again this season.

Ospreys Squad:

Backs (9)
Stefan Terblanche
Jonathan Vaughton
Andrew Bishop
Sonny Parker
Gavin Henson
Shane Williams
James Hook
Shaun Connor
Jason Spice

Forwards (13)
Duncan Jones (Captain)
Cai Griffiths
Huw Bennett
Barry Williams
Adam Jones
Paul James
Alun-Wyn Jones
Lyndon Bateman
Ian Evans
Jonathan Thomas
Andrew Lloyd
Richard Pugh
Lee Beach