Cardiff hope for no repeat of URC play-off agony

[Huw Evans Picture Agency] Cardiff are hoping history will not repeat itself as they bid to finish in the United Rugby Championship (URC) play-off places. The Arms Park side finished one point outside the top eight in the 2024-25 season after being in the top half for the majority of the campaign. Cardiff have again been in the play-off positions for the bulk of the 2025-26 season, starting the 15th round of games in sixth place, with four matches remaining.

Corniel van Zyl's side travel to face Scarlets on Saturday before hosting Ospreys six days later. "We're in the mix and have something to play for, which is pleasing," said van Zyl. "We've come a long way from last season but also it is still ingrained in us.

"We still remember the hurt where we didn't get over the line. " The South African added: "We've discussed it a fair bit this season and it's still something that drives us. "We are trying to achieve something we have not done before by reaching the URC play-offs.

" Van Zyl accepts two wins in the upcoming Welsh derbies will take Cardiff close to their goals. "The next two weeks can be very important but I won't get too far ahead," said van Zyl. "This week is the most important one against Scarlets and then we'll look after next week.