This is an important fixture for both Ulster Rugby and Connacht Rugby respectively with European games looming large on the horizon; momentum is required for both sides after disappointing results in round five. Hawkeye Sidekick previews the fixture.
Connacht Rugby have not won on the road in Guinness Pro 14 action since February 2018, a win on the road against Benetton Rugby. The last road trip win before this triumph was in April 2017 which is simply not good enough for a side who harbor ambitions of competing for a conference playoff spot.
The Western province had good moments against Leinster Rugby last weekend but ultimately had to succumb as Garry Ringrose exposed more defensive line woe and Sean Cronin crashed over after dominant work from the Leinster Rugby front five. Connacht Rugby tried hard but their attacking game plan was stifled and without alternate game plan in the offing, Leinster Rugby absorbed the tackle count and when the opportunity arose, won penalties when Connacht Rugby players advanced without the proper support. A reality check for Andy Friend and management on the level required to compete at the top table.
Connacht Rugby’s team news sees the return of captain Jarrad Butler, Paul Boyle and Sean O’Brien to the back row. Tom McCartney comes in at hooker with Dave Heffernan injured and Matt Healy returns to the back three. A solid outfit for this local derby fixture.
The loss at Thomond Park last weekend looked a likely result when the team selection was submitted but the scoreline (64-7 loss) is a reality check for Dan McFarland, backroom staff and playing group ahead of this fixture. A record club loss and a response is required.
There were some positive passing phases but the defensive line was exposed at will out wide so video analysis was tough going at the start of this week. The withdrawals of John Cooney and Iain Henderson from the action was a decisive point in proceedings as squad depth limitations surfaced at a rate of knots.
The team news sees several personnel changes. Rory Best and Jacob Stockdale make their long awaited club debuts this season; a timely boost for the province. Stuart McCloskey replaces injured Darren Cave in the three quarters and there are more pack changes as Tom O’Toole (prop) and Marcell Coetzee (back row) come into the starting lineup.
Verdict: Ulster Rugby
Connacht Rugby’s away form is horrendous and the loss to Edinburgh Rugby saw similar traits; high penalty count, losing the territorial battle and having to work long and hard in the tackle count. For Connacht Rugby to win this contest, Marmion and Carty need their front five to create the platform in the set piece to launch their exciting back line. A mixed bag last weekend from the pack unit and I think more of the same this weekend.
Ulster Rugby team have to respond after that embarrassing defeat to Munster Rugby. The home fans at Kingspan Stadium will demand a good performance ahead of the start of the European campaign and with the personnel changes to the team, this looks like a home win banker.