Connacht is eagerly anticipating the return of its international stars as it braces for two significant matches that could potentially shape its season. The club is due to face Benetton in the URC this weekend and will then square up against Pau in the 16th round of the Challenge Cup in Europe. Connacht’s forwards coach, John Muldoon, acknowledges that the squad members available are struggling to fill the void.
Despite this, neither Bundee Aki nor Finlay Bealham are slated to be on the field this weekend, following the severe beating by Emirates Lions. Muldoon reveals, “Finlay is getting acquainted with his new family member, while Bundee has been nursing a few injuries. Anybody who witnessed the Scotland match would have noticed the tape on his legs.”
The imminent return of several players is offering Connacht a much needed boost. Players transitioning from injury will introduce much-needed competition, Muldoon says. He also added that Aki plans to resume training by week’s end, Shayne Bolton has made a complete recovery, and Santiago Cordero, the Argentinian, might make his debut. However, none of these players will be on hand for Saturday’s match in Treviso. Connacht and their rivals are neck and neck in the championship after twelve rounds.
“They have a highly skilled pack, and their tenacity is notable,” Muldoon acknowledges. “Their game has significantly improved in recent years, with hardworking, physical tactics.” He knows they must counter both their rivals’ forward strength and their unpredictable outside backs to secure a victory.
It’s crucial for the team to correct its errors from the game against Emirates Lions – a disappointing first home loss to a South African team. Muldoon notes, “While we’ve made things more challenging for ourselves, we’ve not entirely blown our chances. We are aware of the importance of the game following the previous weekend’s performance. We must get our strategy and physicality right. We are, in essence, squaring off with an Italian pack, and we must rise to the challenge.”
In other Connacht news, Jack Aungier, the tighthead prop, has been awarded a two-year contract extension. This deal ensures the 25-year-old will remain with the club until at least 2026.