Following Saturday’s bonus point win over La Rochelle in the European Challenge Cup, the Connacht squad returned to the Sportsground on Monday to prepare for round 2 away to the Exeter Chiefs this weekend.
Despite a few bumps and bruises, there were thankfully no major injury concerns for Pat Lam and his coaching team after the full 23-man match day squad was used during the round 1 home victory.
The medical team also confirmed today that second row Michael Swift, who celebrated his 37th birthday on Saturday, has recovered from his leg injury earlier than expected and will be available for selection this weekend.
The Connacht Eagles were also in action at the weekend in round 2 of the British & Irish Cup competition. The only notable casualty from the game was Academy hooker Jack Dinneen who suffered a high ankle sprain. The 19-year-old will be unavailable for the Eagles’ round 3 clash with London Scottish at the Sportsground on Saturday. Head Coach Nigel Carolan is also likely to be without the services of new Academy recruit Shane Delahunt as the Offaly-born hooker continues his rehab on an ankle sprain picked up in the round 6 PRO12 game against Treviso.
In other news, Connacht Rugby will welcome new recruit Bundee Aki to the Sportsground this week. The 24-year-old New Zealander lands in Ireland today, Monday, and will link up with his teammates later in the week.
The Connacht teams to face Exeter Chiefs and London Scottish will be named on Friday at noon.
Exeter Chiefs v Connacht Rugby
Saturday October 25th
Sandy Park
Kick off 15:00
Referee: Pascal Gauzere (F)
Connacht Eagles v London Scottish
Saturday October 25th
The Sportsground
Kick off 14:30