The Ospreys have far from reached the limit of their fan base, as we see from bumper attendances in certain games. It is a case of appealing to more people, bringing in more fans.

As you rightly point out this is a NEW franchise, 8 years doesn’t breed the loyalty seen to teh clubs after 100 years of existance. But as kids grow up in the habit, and as people become more interested in the franchies, it will continue to grow.

I think there is a lot more growth potential than you suggest

They are a plastic entity formed from a misguided regionalisation that wasn’t really wanted, just forced on Welsh fans because the WRU made a mess of its finances when building the Millennium Stadium. That change alienated more fans than many people realise. They play in a stadium that is not suited to their purpose and in a league that doesn’t have relegation.

That came about at a time when social changes are taking rugby fans away from grass roots rugby. Yes, they will support Wales in their droves but support their region or club? No.

The Magners league is a joke. Nobody takes it seriously until near the end of the season.

I think the Ospreys have reached the limit of their fan base. Many rugby supporters in the Ospreys’ region are happy to support Neath, Swansea, Aberavon or any of the clubs below them in the pyramid. Frankly, the quality of the rugby is better most of the time or at least fans can feel a part of their team.