Anglo-Welsh cup good for us, says Tiatia

FILO Tiatia insists the LV=Cup has offered an opportunity for development — for himself as well as fledgling Ospreys.

The former New Zealand back-rower, now an Ospreys player-coach, adopted a more hands-on role for the Anglo-Welsh tournament, which his side exited despite victory against Leeds on Thursday.

But even though the region had a record of one win and three defeats in the competition, the 38-year-old believes it has been beneficial, both personally and for emerging talent at the Liberty Stadium.

"There were some positives in that we finished with a win, but the negatives are there's plenty of work to be done behind the scenes," said Tiatia.

"It was exciting to see some young talent out there and they'll be hoping they're involved against Connacht.

"With players away on international duty we've got no choice but to play the kids.

"We can only put them out there and see what they've got. There are still areas technically and tactically they have to improve on, but that will come with experience."

High-profile

Tiatia has also adopted a more high-profile role for the tournament, assisting acting head coach Jonathan Humphreys.

And the veteran Kiwi reckons he has learned a lot by swapping the scrum for the sideline.

"It's been interesting. I'm really happy with where I am at the moment in terms of my coaching," he said.

"I'm still very young in this arena and I know there's still plenty more to come in terms of my learning. We've got some experienced coaches here in Johnno (Scott Johnson), Sean (Holley) and Jon (Humphreys) and there's Gruff (Rees) as well.

"They've got a wealth of knowledge. They've been coaching for a long time and I'm just learning as a young kid on the block, but I'm thoroughly enjoying what I'm doing."

He added: "Things are heading in the right direction for the Ospreys so I just want to be part of it.

"All I can do is pass on what I know and what I've experienced. If they want to take it on then all well and good."