Full-back Iestyn Hopkins scored either side of half-time as Ospreys recorded an important 25-03 win against USAP to secure their progression into the EPCR Challenge Cup knockout stage.
Ospreys were dealt a blow before kick-off when George North was replaced from the starting line-up, and the Welsh region's injury crisis grew worse when openside flanker Dewi Lake went off after just four minutes.
With little to separate the sides during a close first-half fly-half Dan Edwards kicked his side ahead through a 34th-minute penalty.
Full-back Hopkins scored the game’s opening try on the half-time whistle, picking up a loose ball deep inside his own half and racing away to score, Edwards hitting his conversion against the post as the hosts led 08-00 at half-time.
A difficult prospect for USAP was made tougher early in the second half when hooker Ignacio Ruiz was shown yellow and Edwards increased Ospreys’ lead with a penalty moments later.
But Hopkins then doubled his account after 50 minutes; an offload found the full-back, and he stepped past an opponent before scoring - Edwards converting.
The victory was confirmed at 62 minutes when left-wing Keelan Giles cut inside, beating several tackles to score under the posts.
With Newcastle Falcons beaten against Benetton Rugby, the victory means that Ospreys have qualified for the Round of 16.
Ospreys have a tough trip to Emirates Lions in their final pool match, while USAP host Newcastle Falcons.
Scorers:
Ospreys: Tries: Iestyn Hopkins (2), Keelan Giles. Conversions: Dan Edwards (2). Penalties: Dan Edwards (2).
USAP: Penalty: Jake McIntyre.
