Connacht edged out by Italians
Cavalieri Estra picked up the first Italian win on the opening weekend of European action today as they downed last season’s Amlin Challenge Cup semi-finalists Connacht 23-21 in a thrilling Pool One game.
A long-range try from South African-born lock Wouter Moore eventually proved the difference between the two sides, although Connacht outside half Ian Keatley hit the post with a last-gasp drop goal to regain the lead for the Irish side.
The home side were 10 points adrift at the interval, but hit back to dominate the second period and get off to a great start in the competition.
The only points that Cavalieri could muster in the opening period came from the boot of former Italy full-back Rima Wakarua, while Keatley grabbed all 13 of his side’s points with two penalties, a try and conversion.
The Irish province stretched their advantage within three minutes of the restart when Kiwi lock Bernie Upton crashed over for a second try.
But the hosts hit back with 13 unanswered points. Wing Niccolo Tempestini crossed for the first home try and Wakarua landed the conversion and two penalties.
That cut the gap to two points before Keatley steadied the rocky Connacht ship with his third penalty of the game.
Then came Moore’s charge for glory and a critical conversion from Wakarua to take his match-winning points tally to 13 and seal the win.
