Ahead of Connacht’s trip to Stadio Monigo in Italy tomorrow night, Pat Lam has made 10 personnel changes to the team that defeated Munster 12 days ago.
“With some players returning and unfortunately losing a few others to injury, we see a much-changed team again this week,” Lam said.
“But the expectation remains that those selected have a responsibility to execute their roles and work hard for the team. This will give us the best chance to secure the points and some very special outcomes for Connacht Rugby.”
Jack Carty and Tiernan O’Halloran both return from injury to start in a back line that also sees the introduction of wing Fionn Carr and scrum half John Cooney.
Rory Parata is named to start in an Academy midfield partnership with Peter Robb.
Up front, props Ronan Loughney and Rodney Ah You start in a front row with hooker Tom McCartney – who captains the side for the second time this season.
Quinn Roux and Andrew Browne make up a new second row partnership while the back row is also changed with the return of openside Jake Heenan from injury. Eoin McKeon shifts to Number eight with John Muldoon named on the bench.
“We’re under no illusions when it comes to the challenge we face in trying to secure a semi final spot tomorrow night in Italy,” Lam said. “Treviso are desperate for points to get them into next year’s Champions Cup.
“However we’re very excited to be playing for so much at this time of the year.”
Connacht v Benetton Treviso at Stadio Monigo. Friday April 29 – kick-off 6.30pm Irish time.
Connacht team: 15 – Tiernan O’Halloran, 14 – Niyi Adeolokun, 13 – Rory Parata, 12 – Peter Robb, 11 – Fionn Carr, 10 – Jack Carty, 9 – John Cooney; 1 – Ronan Loughney, 2 – Tom McCartney (captain), 3 – Rodney Ah You, 4 – Quinn Roux, 5 – Andrew Browne, 6 – Sean O’Brien, 7 – Jake Heenan, 8 – Eoin McKeon.
Replacements: 16 – Dave Heffernan, 17 – JP Cooney, 18 – Finlay Bealham, 19 – Aly Muldowney, 20 – John Muldoon, 21 – Coalin Blade, 22 – AJ MacGinty, 23 – Robbie Henshaw.
