Friday Round-Up

Connacht down Munster: Irish province Connacht earned a well deserved win over neighbours Munster last night, as Pat Lam’s outfit put in an impressive performance to come out 24-16 winners at the Sportsground. Played out in woeful weather conditions, it was the visitors to Galway who made all the early running, with Irish international flanker Peter O’Mahony going over for Munster, as his side gained a 13 point lead after just 15 minutes. From then it was all about the Connacht fightback, with scrumhalf Kieran Marmion the first to cross the whitewash, as the gap was narrowed before the interval. The second period continued in similar vein, with Marmion’s halfback partner Craig Ronaldson dotting down for a five pointer, before the hosts stretched out their lead courtesy of a try from second row forward Aly Muldowney. Despite a valiant effort late on from Anthony Foley’s Munster, the hosts held out for a much deserved win courtesy of a staunch defensive effort in the closing stages.

Blues edge derby: Cardiff Blues fans left Rodney Parade with all the bragging rights last night, as they witnessed their side narrowly edge out fellow Welsh rivals the Newport-Gwent Dragons in an 11-9 win. A close contest throughout, the Blues scored the game’s sole try, courtesy of some good build-up play, with centre Cory Allen the benefactor on this occasion as the Blues took a 5-3 advantage into the second period. After a poor opening 40 from both sides, thankfully the second period was something more of a spectacle, with both sides pushing for the win. Despite the lead changing hands on multiple occasions, it was a Gareth Anscombe penalty with just over 10 minutes left on the clock which sealed the victory for the visitors from the Welsh capital.

Ryan Sheady