Clermont Auvergne have survived a second-half comeback from Ospreys to secure a 34-29 win in the European Rugby Champions Cup.
© Getty Images
The French side were dealt a blow early on when Alexandre Lapandry was sent to the sin bin with just 12 minutes gone, but the hosts were able to hold the Welsh team to just three points during his absence.
Once Clermont were back up to 15 men they started to dominate, resulting in tries for David Strettle and Aurelien Rougerie before half time, putting the home side in a comfortable position at the break.
Ospreys were on the front foot at the start of the second half though as Justin Tipuric powered over for the visiting side's first try of the match, while Eli Walker went over moments later, allowing Dan Biggar to cut the gap to three points with the conversion.
Clermont responded with another dominant spell, resulting in a second try of the afternoon for Strettle before Wesley Fofana sprinted through, securing the bonus point for the hosts.
Despite trailing by 17 points with five minutes remaining, Ospreys finished with a flourish, Sam Parry and Tom Habberfield both caught the hosts out with a couple of weaving runs late on, but there was not enough time for the Welsh side to complete the comeback.
Despite the loss, Ospreys remain top in Pool 2, having picked up a bonus point in both of their matches so far, while Clermont sit third.
Sian Cowper
