Bristol wake up to earn a bonus-point win at Connacht
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Connacht 18 Bristol Bears 27
Bristol Bears put on an impressive second half display to earn a bonus point win in Ireland.
It promised so much, but failed to deliver. At least in the first half.
A poor first half from both sides, saw each side give away possession on several occasions. Neither side could really create meaningful opportunities and the frustration was evident. The last few minutes of the second half provided a glimpse of things to come.
The pace suddenly picked up and Bristol came to life. They earned a penalty and kicked to the corner. Bryan Byrne was able to score off the back of an explosive maul.
Connacht for some late points at the end of the half, and were rewarded when they won a penalty. Carty was able to get the hosts on the board.
Connacht had most of the possession and territory but trailed at half time.
The second half was the complete opposite to the first. Connacht went down to 14 men as Aki went to the bin.
That allowed Bristol to open up, and that is exactly what they did. Ed Holmes scored a converted try after some good work from Nathan Hughes.
Bristol then went from inside their own half to score their third try through Piers O'Conor. Sheedy added the extras.
The Irish side were under some pressure but managed to pull one back through
Tiernan O'Halloran. Carty managed the extras
Siale Piutau then went to the bin, allowing Carty to add another three points.
The yellow card didn't stop Bristol as they pressed with pace from deep and managed to score their bonus point try through Ioan Lloyd.
With the game all but out of sight, Connacht dug deep to score a try that took them within 7 points, thanks to John Porch.
Connact had time to search for the winner, but in their haste, have away a penalty that Sheedy kicked over, Connacht needed to score again to at least take a bonus point.
They pressed and put Bristol under pressure to win a late penalty. Some discussions and confusion occurred and Connacht opted to kick to the corner with less than a minute to go, instead of taking the points that would secure the bonus point.
Connacht pressed on and sent it wide to Tiernan O’Halloran, who dived in the corner but was tackled into touch.
Connacht get nothing from the game and Bristol Bears march on and are still in the playoff hunt.
