Friend Makes Four Connacht Changes For Munster

Andy Farrell has made four changes to the Connacht team ahead of tomorrow’s Pro-14 game against Munster at The Sportsground. Connacht go into

Andy Farrell has made four changes to the Connacht team ahead of tomorrow’s Pro-14 game against Munster at The Sportsground.

Connacht go into the game on the back of a sensational 35 points to 24 win over Leinster in the RDS.

“Last week’s win was a testament to the belief and determination that was still present in our squad despite a challenging few weeks” explained Connacht head coach Andy Friend.

“Now it’s all about backing that up and finding another win that will bring us right into contention for a Guinness PRO14 final spot” declared Friend.

“We’ve had a very positive week with no news COVID cases and a few players available to us again, but we will still have to be at our best to overcome a Munster side that is full of quality.”

The first change comes in the front row where Finlay Bealham is restored to tighthead prop, he lines out alongside Denis Buckley and Shane Delahunt.

After coming off the bench last week, Ultan Dillane now comes into the starting side where he partners Quinn Roux in the second row, with Roux remaining as captain.

The pack is completed by Conor Oliver, Sean Masterson, and Sean O’Brien who has recovered from injury which has kept him out for the last six weeks.

Caolin Blade and Jack Carty continue at 9 and 10 respectively, as do Tom Daly and Sammy Arnold in the centre after brilliant performances in last weekend’s win over Leinster.

The final change comes in the back three where Ben O’Donnell comes in for his first start in a Connacht jersey – forming an exciting trio with Alex Wootton and John Porch.

Among the replacements include the returning Paul Boyle and Irish international Dave Heffernan.

Connacht Rugby confirmed that all Pro players and management returned negative results in this week’s round of PCR testing. A number of players who have spent the last period in self-isolation will return to training next week.

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