Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Rugby Match Preview

Glasgow Warriors v Connacht Rugby, 3.30pm, Sunday

Connacht couldn’t have gone any better in the Challenge Cup, claiming bonus point victories in all four group matches to finish as top seeds.

Now they will look to carry that form into the BKT URC as they travel to Scotstoun to take on the reigning champions in a game moved from Friday night because of Storm Eowyn.

Reflecting on his team’s perfect European record, coach Pete Wilkins said: “It’s very satisfying. I am very proud of the boys. They said from the start that the Challenge Cup is something they wanted to really make a go of this season.

“It’s one thing saying that, but it’s another to put in the performances and the lads have done that. They deserve a huge amount of credit. It’s something we can build from going back into the URC.”

Connacht are 13th in the league table at present, with three wins from their nine matches.

“We go to Glasgow now and really we’ve got to get a result,” admitted Wilkins.

“I don’t think it’s season ending if we don’t, but it’s certainly a really important opportunity for us to make up some of the ground we lost in those two interpro games either side of Christmas.

“My job is to keep pushing the group to grow and keep getting better.”

Glasgow head coach Franco Smith said: “Connacht have been performing very well in their European fixtures, showing the quality they possess, and will pose a stern test.

“We have a great squad and Sunday presents an opportunity for some players that have earned their chance to perform at home.”

Fly-half JJ Hanrahan makes his first start in eight months for Connacht, while Glasgow centre Ollie Smith returns after an even longer injury lay-off of some 13 months.