The Ospreys have handed first professional contracts to the highly-rated teenage duo of Emyr Williams and Matthew Morgan who have come through the player development pathway at the region.

Williams, an 18-year-old openside flank from Ystradowen in Neath, played his early rugby for Abercrave before gaining selection for the Ospreys at Under-18 level.

Bridgend Athletic product Morgan, who is just one year older, has already had a taste of senior rugby at the Ospreys featuring at flyhalf in three Anglo Welsh Cup games last season as well as the Magners League games away to Connacht and Aironi.

Andrew Hore, Ospreys Chief Operations Officer said: "Securing a first professional contract is a big moment for any young rugby player, and it's no different for these two. Emyr and Matthew are two young men just starting out on their rugby career, and there is a lot of hard work ahead of them if they are going to fulfil their obvious potential. This contract is just the starting point for them.

"As a region we are justifiably proud of our reputation for player development, and these two are in an environment where they will get the best support and coaching to enable them to progress.

The rest is up to them, but as long as they show the right commitment and endeavour then they have every chance of establishing themselves as Ospreys," he added.

After enjoying a good year with Swansea during 2010/11, Morgan has chosen to stay at St Helen's for the new season and will again play for the All Whites in their forthcoming Premiership campaign, while Williams will play for newly-promoted Bridgend.

Hore commented: : "The working relationship we have with Bridgend and Swansea will ensure that young players like Emyr and Matthew will gain a real understanding of the Osprey style of play we are looking to develop at all levels of the pathway, and the standards of behaviour we expect from our players, working with young Premiership coaches who we believe have the potential to become world class."