After the match Mack Hansen expressed the feeling of frustration with the season but happiness to get the win “We haven’t given our fans a lot to cheer about this season but we really believe we can win this competition, we feel we have turned a corner and we are ready to win this. We are not just here to compete.”

The result not only keep the dream of a home semi-final intact but could also provides a much-needed financial boost heading into the summer.

With JJ Hanrahan on his way to Munster and Santi Cordero unlikely to stay, the win strengthens the case for reinforcements at both out-half and full-back. Recruitment in these key positions will be essential if Connacht are to going to finish in the top 8 next season and would significantly help filling the new stadium.

Up next is a mammoth test: Racing 92.

While the Parisians are still technically involved in a relegation scrap in the Top 14, their squad depth and recent form suggest they should pull clear. More importantly, they’ll view the Champions Cup as a prime target — a chance to salvage their season and make a deep run in Europe.

Expect star names on show: Owen Farrell, Gaël Fickou, Romain Taofifénua, Tristan Tedder, Guram Gogichashvili, and Jordan Joseph are all expected to feature. It’s one of the most formidable squads in club rugby, and Connacht will need to be at their absolute best to match them.

However, the Dexcom will play its part. Home advantage is a major factor in knockout rugby, and if Connacht can clean up the errors from recent weeks, they have every chance of pulling off an upset. That said, most bookies will likely install Racing 92 as strong favourites, with an expected handicap around -9, which would put Connacht around 3/1 outsiders.

Whether that’s generous or fair remains to be seen — but Connacht fans will be dreaming of another famous European night in Galway.

The post Connacht’s Crucial Win Over Cardiff Sets Up Racing 92 Showdown appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The post Connacht v Cardiff: Challenge Cup Last 16 Preview, Prediction, Team News & Key Stats appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The post URC Dream Over — Connacht Must Shake Things Up for Challenge Cup Knockout Clash appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Munster Money Talks Ahead of High-Stakes Clash in Castlebar

A significant swing in the betting markets has raised eyebrows ahead of Connacht’s clash with Munster in Castlebar, with punters piling in on the visitors. What began as Connacht -1 on the handicap has flipped dramatically — now the westerners find themselves 5-point underdogs on home soil.

The movement is a clear signal of confidence in Munster, who look set to field arguably their strongest lineup since their United Rugby Championship triumph in 2023. The likes of Tadhg Beirne, Jack Crowley, Peter O’Mahony, Conor Murray, Craig Casey, and Calvin Nash are all tipped to be involved, while Jean Kleyn, Jack O’Donoghue, and electric winger Thaakir Abrahams could also feature.

Despite this, there’s a sense of uncertainty surrounding Connacht. On paper, they should be strengthened by the return of six players from Ireland camp:

• Bundee Aki
• Mack Hansen
• Finlay Bealham
• Cian Prendergast
• Caolin Blade
• Darragh Murray

That injection of Test-level talent should be a major boost, but Connacht’s form has been inconsistent all season.

It’s hard to know exactly where the Connacht camp is at mentally. Their campaign has lacked momentum, and a win last week would have completely changed the complexion of this fixture. Instead, the pressure is now squarely on the visitors, who have more at stake in terms of league standings and playoff positioning.

Yes, the game is in front of a big crowd in Castlebar, with plenty of excitement and new fans in attendance. But rugby is rarely sentimental — it often comes down to who needs it more. And right now, that’s Munster.

From a Connacht perspective, the hope is that emotion, home support, and a renewed sense of pride can trump that urgency. But make no mistake: they’re going to need a big performance to halt the Munster momentum.

All eyes will be on Castlebar this weekend, and with both squads close to full strength, it promises to be one of the most compelling interprovincial clashes of the season — even if the bookies think the result is already leaning red.

The post Munster Money Talks Ahead of High-Stakes Clash in Castlebar appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Date: Saturday, 29 March 2025
Kick-Off: 14:30
Venue: Hastings Insurance MacHale Park, Castlebar
Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU)

Historic Day in Castlebar as Connacht Host Munster at MacHale Park

MacHale Park will become the 56th venue to host a United Rugby Championship fixture as Connacht and Munster collide in Round 14. The first professional rugby match ever played at the iconic Mayo GAA ground is set to attract Connacht’s largest-ever home crowd.

Form Guide and URC Picture

Connacht have won two of their last three matches — beating Cardiff and Benetton — and came close to making it three in a row before falling 43–40 to Ospreys. They’re 12th on 31 points, with a top-eight finish unlikely, but a Challenge Cup campaign lies ahead with the prospect of three home games to reach the final.

Munster are sixth on 34 points but reeling from back-to-back losses to Edinburgh and Glasgow. They’ve won twice away from home this season (Ulster and Dragons) and haven’t won in Galway since 2021.

Key Stats

• MacHale Park is the 56th URC venue.
• Connacht have won 2 of their last 7 matches — both at home.
• They’ve lost 7 straight against Irish provinces.
• Munster’s only away wins this season came at Ulster and Dragons.
• The last 7 meetings have all been won by the home team on the day.
• Munster last won in Galway in January 2021.

Team News and Predicted Lineups

Connacht are expected to welcome back their Irish internationals — Bundee Aki, Mack Hansen, Cian Prendergast, and Finlay Bealham — while in-form winger Finn Tracey retains his place. Ben Murphy is ruled out through injury.

Connacht Predicted XV:

• 1. Denis Buckley
• 2. Dave Heffernan
• 3. Finlay Bealham
• 4. Darragh Murray
• 5. Joe Joyce
• 6. Josh Murphy
• 7. Shamus Hurley-Langton
• 8. Cian Prendergast
• 9. Caolin Blade
• 10. Josh Ioane
• 11. Finn Tracey
• 12. Bundee Aki
• 13. Cathal Forde
• 14. Mack Hansen
• 15. Piers O’Conor

Munster Team News:

Munster could welcome back several key players to their matchday 23:

• Tadhg Beirne
• Jack Crowley
• Conor Murray
• Calvin Nash
• Peter O’Mahony
• Craig Casey
• Jean Kleyn
• Jack O’Donoghue
• Thaakir Abrahams

Oli Jager is also due to return to training this week after missing the defeat to Glasgow. Meanwhile, the fitness of Niall Scannell and Billy Burns (both shoulder) will be assessed closer to the weekend.

Munster Injury List:

• Shane Daly – hamstring
• Diarmuid Kilgallen – thigh
• Mike Haley – ankle
• Dave Kilcoyne – thigh
• Liam Coombes – chest
• Edwin Edogbo – Achilles
• Roman Salanoa – knee

What’s at Stake

Connacht are eyeing a strong finish in the URC and a major run in the Challenge Cup. With a record crowd and returning stars, they’ll be fired up for a statement win.

Munster need a response. A third straight loss could push them out of the top eight with pressure mounting. A full-strength squad could make all the difference.

Prediction

Connacht 26–20 Munster
Home advantage, form momentum, and returning Ireland stars could see Connacht edge what’s set to be a thrilling encounter.

#CONvMUN #URC #IrishRugby
vs | |

The post Connacht v Munster Preview – Predicted Teams, Kick-Off Time, Key Stats | URC Round 14 at MacHale Park appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Connacht have named their matchday 23 for Saturday’s BKT United Rugby Championship clash away to the Ospreys (kick-off 5.15pm), with just three changes from the side that overcame Benetton three weeks ago.

There is continuity across the backline, as head coach Pete Wilkins sticks with the same seven backs for the second consecutive league fixture — a rare show of consistency in selection that reflects growing cohesion in the attacking unit.

Josh Ioane and Caolin Blade continue as the half-back pairing, with Cathal Forde and Hugh Gavin retained in midfield. Shayne Bolton and Finn Treacy remain on the wings, while Piers O’Conor lines out at full-back once again.

Up front, Denis Buckley returns to the starting XV and is joined in the front row by Dave Heffernan and Jack Aungier. Captain Joe Joyce comes back into the engine room alongside Darragh Murray, while Josh Murphy joins Shamus Hurley-Langton and Paul Boyle in a physical and mobile back row.

There’s also a clear intent to match Ospreys physically, with a 6:2 forwards-to-backs split named on the bench. Sean Jansen, typically a back row option, takes the number 23 jersey, highlighting the tactical focus for this crucial away fixture.

Away Form Must Improve

Connacht’s only away win in the league since April 2024 came against the Scarlets back in early October. Since then, results on the road have been inconsistent — a trend that must change if the province are to stay in touch with the playoff places.

With a massive fixture against Cardiff to follow next week — set to be played at Hastings Insurance MacHale Park in Castlebar — Wilkins and his staff will be eager to carry momentum into the home stretch of the season.

A defeat in Swansea could force selection changes for the Connacht leg of that double-header, while a victory would put Connacht slightly back in the mix for a top-eight finish.

Team named for tomorrow’s BKT URC clash with Ospreys in Swansea

3️⃣ changes from the Benetton win
Backline unchanged
6:2 bench split

See the squad in full https://t.co/3SKRxf2L5K pic.twitter.com/7rTehPHt61

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 21, 2025

Connacht Matchday 23 vs Ospreys (Saturday, 5.15pm):

15. Piers O’Conor
14. Finn Treacy
13. Hugh Gavin
12. Cathal Forde
11. Shayne Bolton
10. Josh Ioane
9. Caolin Blade

1. Denis Buckley
2. Dave Heffernan
3. Jack Aungier
4. Joe Joyce (Captain)
5. Darragh Murray
6. Josh Murphy
7. Shamus Hurley-Langton
8. Paul Boyle

Replacements:
16. Dylan Tierney-Martin
17. Peter Dooley
18. Sam Illo
19. Niall Murray
20. Cian Prendergast
21. Conor Oliver
22. Tom Farrell
23. Sean Jansen

The post Connacht Unchanged in the Backs as Wilkins Names Strong Squad for Ospreys Test appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly)

Last Updated: March 5, 2025

The 2025/26 season is on the horizon, and while player movement across Ireland’s four provinces has been minimal, a few key signings have been confirmed. Will we see more transfers in the coming weeks? Here’s a weekly updated list of confirmed signings for each province.

Munster – Leading the Transfer Market

Munster have been the most active province so far, confirming four signings:

• Michael Milne (Prop, 25) – from Leinster (IRL)
• Lee Barron (Hooker, 24) – from Leinster (IRL)
• JJ Hanrahan (Fly-half, 32) – from Connacht (IRL)
• Dan Kelly (Centre, 24) – from Leicester Tigers (ENG)

With two front-row additions, a playmaker, and a promising centre in Dan Kelly, Munster are strengthening across key areas.

Ulster – A Single But Significant Addition

Ulster have made just one signing so far:

• Juarno Augustus (Back row, 27) – from Northampton Saints (ENG)

The powerful South African No. 8 will bring much-needed physicality to Ulster’s back row.

Leinster – No Confirmed Signings Yet

Leinster have yet to announce any additions. Given their incredible academy pipeline, they may not feel the need to recruit externally. Will that change?

Connacht – Yet to Enter the Market

Like Leinster, Connacht have yet to confirm any signings. With JJ Hanrahan leaving for Munster, will they look for a replacement?

Should We Be Concerned About the Lack of Transfers?

Compared to previous seasons, Irish rugby’s transfer activity has been unusually quiet. Munster and Ulster have made moves, but Leinster and Connacht remain inactive.

• Are budgets tighter than before?
• Is there confidence in homegrown talent?
• Will we see late-window signings?

Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

Latest Irish Rugby Transfers (Updated Weekly)

Province	Player	Position	Age	From
Munster	Michael Milne	Prop	25	Leinster
Munster	Lee Barron	Hooker	24	Leinster
Munster	JJ Hanrahan	Fly-half	32	Connacht
Munster	Dan Kelly	Centre	24	Leicester
Ulster	Juarno Augustus	Back row	27	Northampton
Leinster
Connacht

This table will be updated weekly as new signings are announced.

Have Your Say!

Are you surprised by the lack of movement so far? Which province needs to strengthen most? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

The post Irish Rugby Transfers: 2025/26 Signings for Munster, Leinster, Ulster & Connacht (Updated Weekly) appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The IRFU has confirmed that Mack Hansen has signed a new two-year deal, keeping him with Connacht and Ireland until at least the end of the 2026/27 season.

Connacht Rugby and @IrishRugby are delighted to confirm Mack Hansen has signed a two-year contract extension ⁰ #OneConnacht pic.twitter.com/LvmQ6aYgUI

— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) March 3, 2025

Since making his Test debut against Wales in February 2022, Hansen has been a standout performer in Ireland’s back three. The 25-year-old has earned 27 caps and crossed the whitewash 12 times, cementing his status as one of the most exciting attacking threats in the game.

Hansen’s meteoric rise saw him nominated for the World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year in his first international season. His decision to remain in Ireland is another boost for Andy Farrell’s squad as they build towards Rugby World Cup 2027.

Having joined Connacht in 2021, Hansen has made 38 appearances for the province, quickly becoming a fan favourite in Galway and beyond.

Speaking about his contract extension, Hansen said:

“Since moving to Ireland, I’ve loved every minute, and I’m delighted to sign this new contract. Playing for Connacht and Ireland means a huge amount to me, and I feel like I’ve developed massively thanks to the coaching and structures here. There’s a lot to play for this season, and my focus is on finishing strongly with both club and country. I’d like to thank the IRFU for their faith in me, and I’m really excited for the future.”

IRFU Performance Director David Humphreys also welcomed the news:

“Mack has been a key player for Ireland and Connacht in recent years, and securing his future is a huge boost for Irish rugby. He’s a proven performer who thrives on the big stage and is a firm favourite with fans. We believe there’s still more to come from him, and we’re looking forward to seeing him continue to progress.”

The post Mack Hansen Commits Future to Ireland and Connacht with New Contract appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

According to social media rumors, Ioane is set to compete with Jack Carty and Sean Naughton for the coveted ten jersey, with JJ Hanrahan sidelined until next March due to injury.

This move could significantly bolster Connacht’s squad, offering a dynamic and experienced playmaker to the mix. Sources suggest the deal should be confirmed in the coming days.

Josh Ioane’s Rugby Journey

Early Career and Rise with the Highlanders

Josh Ioane’s rugby journey began with Otago, where he made an immediate impact. His impressive performance in his debut season caught the attention of the Highlanders, who signed him for the 2018 Super Rugby season.

Breakthrough Season in 2019

During the 2019 Super Rugby season, Ioane emerged as a regular starter despite the presence of experienced Marty Banks. Ioane’s ability to consistently score points was a highlight of the season, finishing as one of the highest points-scorers with 114 points.

All Blacks Selection and International Debut

Ioane’s domestic form did not go unnoticed, and on 2 July 2019, he was named by head coach Steve Hansen as one of four uncapped players in New Zealand’s All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship. Although initially overlooked in the starting lineup, Ioane made his international debut for New Zealand against Tonga on 7 September 2019. He made an immediate impact, replacing Beauden Barrett at half-time and scoring 8 points in a 92–7 victory.

Continued Domestic Success

Ioane continued to perform at a high level in domestic competitions. After leaving the Highlanders, he joined the Chiefs for the 2022 Super Rugby Pacific season. His tenure with various teams showcases his adaptability and consistent performance on the field.

Career Statistics

| Years | Team | Apps | Points |
|———–|————–|——|——–|
| 2017–2022 | Otago | 57 | 427 |
| 2018–2021 | Highlanders | 43 | 229 |
| 2022– | Chiefs | 29 | 74 |

Potential Impact at Connacht Rugby

Competition for the Ten Jersey

If Ioane’s move to Connacht materialises , he will be vying for the starting fly-half position with seasoned player Jack Carty and emerging talent Sean Naughton. This competition is expected to elevate the overall performance of the team as players push each other for the starting role.

Filling the Void Left by JJ Hanrahan

With JJ Hanrahan likely out until next March due to injury, Ioane’s presence will be crucial. His experience and skill set will be invaluable in guiding the team through the upcoming season, providing stability and creativity in the backline.

Josh Ioane’s potential move to Connacht Rugby is a significant development for Irish Rugby, where Leinster currently have four international tens. Questions will have to be asked why Connacht had the go find a non Irish qualified player to fill the gap left by the Hanrahan injury.

The post All Black Josh Ioane Linked with Move to Connacht Rugby appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

#MUNvOSP
Three changes from last week’s win over Ulster see Antoine Frisch, John Hodnett and Gavin Coombes come into the Munster side
Reuben Morgan-Williams starts at scrum half for Ospreys, with Owen Williams partnering him at out half
#BULvBEN
Sebastian de Klerk starts on the wing for Vodacom Bulls
Malakai Fekitoa returns alongside Ignacio Brex to make up Benetton’s centre pairing
#LEIvULS
James Ryan returns to Leinster’s starting XV for the first time since the R17 loss to Ulster and captains the side
Matty Rea set to make his 100th appearance for Ulster
#GLAvSTO
George Turner set for 100th appearance for Glasgow Warriors if called upon from the bench
Warrick Gelant and Paul de Wet make their return to DHL Stormers match-day squad

FRIDAY, JUNE 7

Munster v Ospreys
Thomond Park, Limerick – KO 19.35 IRE & UK / 20.35 ITA & SA
Referee: Hollie Davidson (SRU, 14th league game)
AR 1: Andrea Piardi (FIR) AR 2: Gianluca Gnecchi (FIR)
TMO: Andrew McMenemy (SRU)
Live on: RTÉ, S4C, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Munster: Simon Zebo, Calvin Nash, Antoine Frisch, Seán O’Brien, Shane Daly, Jack Crowley, Craig Casey, Jeremy Loughman, Niall Scannell, Stephen Archer, RG Snyman, Tadhg Beirne (CAPT), Peter O’Mahony, John Hodnett, Gavin Coombes
Replacements: Diarmuid Barron, John Ryan, Oli Jager, Jack O’Donoghue, Alex Kendellen, Conor Murray, Tony Butler, Mike Haley

Ospreys: Max Nagy, Luke Morgan, Owen Watkin, Keiran Williams, Keelan Giles, Owen Williams, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake, Tom Botha, James Ratti, Huw Sutton, Jac Morgan, Justin Tipuric (CAPT), Morgan Morris
Replacements: Sam Parry, Gareth Thomas, Rhys Henry, Victor Sekekete, Morgan Morse, Luke Davies, Luke Scully, Harri Houston

Ospreys Head Coach Toby Booth said: “We’ve got ourselves to this window of opportunity and we’re excited about it, but we won’t underestimate how tough the game will be. Like us, Munster have got a tight group, with a lot of quality in it, and that makes them a very dangerous opponent.”

SATURDAY, JUNE 8

Vodacom Bulls v Benetton
Loftus Versfeld Stadium, Pretoria – KO 14.30 IRE & UK / 15.30 ITA & SA
Referee: Mike Adamson (SRU, 82nd game)
AR 1: Sam Grove-White (SRU) AR 2: Adam Jones (WRU)
TMO: Ben Whitehouse (WRU)
Live on: SuperSport, Sky Italia, TG4, Premier Sports, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Vodacom Bulls: Willie Le Roux, Sebastian de Klerk, David Kriel, Harold Vorster, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Johan Goosen, Embrose Papier, Gerhard Steenekamp, Johan Grobbelaar, Wilco Louw, Ruan Vermaak, Ruan Nortje (CAPT), Nizaam Carr, Elrigh Louw, Cameron Hanekom
Replacements: Akker van der Merwe, Simphiwe Matanzima, Francois Klopper, Reinhardt Ludwig, Jannes Kirsten, Keagan Johannes, Chris Smith, Sergeal Petersen

Benetton: Rhyno Smith, Tommaso Menoncello, Malakai Fekitoa, Ignacio Brex, Onisi Ratave, Tomas Albornoz, Andy Uren, Thomas Gallo, Bautista Bernasconi, Simione Ferrari, Edoardo Iachizzi, Federico Ruzza, Alessandro Izekor, Michele Lamaro (CAPT), Toa Halafihi
Replacements: Gianmarco Lucchesi, Mirco Spagnolo, Giosuè Zilocchi, Eli Snyman, Niccolò Cannone, Lorenzo Cannone, Alessandro Garbisi, Jacob Umaga

Vodacom Bulls Director of Rugby Jake White: “Canan injured his hand against the Sharks last weekend and will be going for surgery today. It is one of those where they will only be able to see how serious it is once they open him up. It is his index finger (that is fractured) which influences his passing, on top of his pinkie a few weeks ago which he has strapped before. I am not sure if it will be one of those that you can strap in a couple of weeks and play but he remains unavailable this week and the next. From the Boks point of view, I hope it is not that serious so that he is ready for the Irish series.”

Benetton Head Coach Marco Bortolami said: “The clash between the two forward packs will be decisive and for this reason we have opted to go to the bench with the 6 plus 2. There are also some changes to inject fresh and new energy from the first minute and the other boys will come off the bench to finish the job. Between the backs we chose to move Menoncello as a winger and insert Fekitoa in the centre to add the maximum physicality possible. Furthermore, Malakai gives us a lot of experience having already played matches of this caliber many times; I’m sure he will make a great contribution”

Leinster v Ulster
Aviva Stadium, Dublin – KO 17.00 IRE & UK / 18.00 ITA & SA
Referee: Andrew Brace (IRFU, 95th league game)
AR 1: Craig Evans (WRU) AR 2: Eoghan Cross (IRFU)
TMO: Brain MacNeice (IRFU)
Live on: TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Leinster: Jimmy O’Brien, Jordan Larmour, Robbie Henshaw, Jamie Osborne, James Lowe, Ross Byrne, Jamison Gibson-Park, Andrew Porter, Dan Sheehan, Tadhg Furlong, Joe McCarthy, James Ryan (CAPT), Ryan Baird, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris
Replacements: Rónan Kelleher, Cian Healy, Michael Ala’alatoa, Ross Molony, Max Deegan, Luke McGrath, Sam Prendergast, Ciarán Frawley

Ulster: Stewart Moore, Mike Lowry, Will Addison, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, Billy Burns, John Cooney, Eric O’Sullivan, Rob Herring (CAPT), Tom O’Toole, Harry Sheridan, Cormac Izuchukwu, Matty Rea, David McCann, Nick Timoney
Replacements: Tom Stewart, Andy Warwick, Scott Wilson, Greg Jones, Dave Ewers, Nathan Doak, Ethan McIlroy, Jude Postlethwaite

Glasgow Warriors v DHL Stormers
Scotstoun Stadium, Glasgow – KO 19.35 IRE & UK / 20.35 ITA & SA
Referee: Chris Busby (IRFU, 43rd league game)
AR 1: Frank Murphy (IRFU) AR 2: Peter Martin (IRFU)
TMO: Mark Patton (IRFU)
Live on: Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Glasgow Warriors: Josh McKay, Sebastian Cancelliere, Huw Jones, Sione Tuipulotu, Kyle Steyn (CAPT), Tom Jordan, George Horne, Jamie Bhatti, Johnny Matthews, Zander Fagerson, Scott Cummings, Richie Gray, Matt Fagerson, Rory Darge, Jack Dempsey
Replacements: George Turner, Nathan McBeth, Oli Kebble, Max Williamson, Euan Ferrie, Henco Venter, Jamie Dobie, Ross Thompson

DHL Stormers: Warrick Gelant, Suleiman Hartzenberg, Dan du Plessis, Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, Ben Loader, Manie Libbok, Herschel Jantjies, Brok Harris, Joseph Dweba, Frans Malherbe, Salmaan Moerat (CAPT), Ruben van Heerden, Willie Engelbrecht, Ben-Jason Dixon, Hacjivah Dayimani
Replacements: Andre-Hugo Venter, Sti Sithole, Neethling Fouche, Adre Smith, Marcel Theunissen, Connor Evans, Paul de Wet, Jean-Luc du Plessis

Glasgow Warriors Head Coach Franco Smith said: “The Stormers have a proud record in the BKT URC playoffs, and we know they will be coming to Scotstoun intent on continuing that record tomorrow night. They have some brilliant individuals who have the ability to hurt you from anywhere on the field, in addition to being a physical unit with and without the ball. We’re looking forward to the challenge and we know the Warrior Nation will make themselves known as they get behind us tomorrow night.”

DHL Stormers Director of Rugby John Dobson said: “We know that it will take a top performance to stay alive in this competition and that is a challenge we have embraced. We will have to do it without a number of our frontline players due to injuries, but it is testament to the depth we have built and the quality of our squad that there is plenty of belief. Despite having almost a full team ruled out, we have built up some good momentum heading into the play-offs. This is our first BKT URC play-off match away from home after playing six at DHL Stadium and we want to show that we can rise to the occasion.”

The post Munster v Connacht – Preview, Betting, Starting Teams, Where to Watch appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.