The Ospreys are heading to Dublin with one final mission: to close out their United Rugby Championship (URC) season in style. Head coach Mark Jones has his sights set on a statement win against Leinster at the Aviva Stadium this Saturday (17:15 BST), hoping to turn a challenging campaign into a memorable finish.

Leinster, currently sitting third in the URC standings, have their own big date on the horizon—a European Champions Cup final against Bordeaux-Begles next week. But for the Ospreys, this match is about pride and progress. After missing the top-eight play-off spots for the second year running, Jones is determined to see his squad finish on a high note.

With a record of seven wins and 39 points, the Ospreys currently occupy 11th place—just shy of last season’s 12th-place finish with 40 points. But Jones sees an opportunity to edge ahead. "We have an opportunity to finish with more wins and more points than we did last year," he said. "That for us will be progress, particularly with everything that's gone on off the field."

It’s been a turbulent season for the Welsh side, with lingering questions about the club’s long-term future casting a shadow over their on-field efforts. Yet, Jones remains focused on the positives. "With the league's increased competitiveness, you can see how tight one or two performances can make to the league table and where you finish," the former Wales wing added. "Unfortunately, we are not quite going to make it this year."

Saturday’s clash also carries an emotional weight. Flanker Jac Morgan will captain the Ospreys for the final time before his move to Gloucester, while full-back Jack Walsh is also set to depart. "We are looking for a performance that we can all sign off the season with pride," Jones emphasized. "We also send those players off that are leaving us in style."

Adding to the narrative, Wales squad call-up Ben Warren will start at tight-head prop, while fly-half Dan Edwards—fresh off a 22-point haul against the Scarlets last week—is set to make his 50th appearance for the Ospreys. Wing Iestyn Hopkins will also reach the same milestone. "There's been lots of progress and growth for him," Jones said of Edwards. "He's driving himself to be a better player and leader. He's had a great season."

As the Ospreys look to cap off a rollercoaster season with a victory in Dublin, all eyes will be on how this resilient squad rises to the occasion—and whether they can send their departing stars off in the style they deserve.