Connacht make two changes for semi-final

The Connacht team to play Narbonne Saturday in the second leg of their Parker Pen Challenge Cup quarter-final clash shows two changes from that which defeated the French in the first leg.

Wed, 28 Jan, 2004 - 13:30

The Connacht team to play Narbonne Saturday in the second leg of their Parker Pen Challenge Cup quarter-final clash shows two changes from that which defeated the French in the first leg.

There is one change in the backline with Conor O’Loughlin starting at scrum-half in place of the injured Mike Walls, with Chris Keane coming into the squad on the bench.

In the back row Paul Neville returns after missing both legs against Pau, as well as the 27-18 victory in Narbonne last weekend, and he is selected at openside wing forward.

Injury doubts concerning a few other players have cleared up with coach Michael Bradley and his assistant John McKee reporting that the side are in good form as they bid to nail down a semi-final spot in the competition.

Tickets for Saturday’s big game are selling well from the Connacht Rugby offices in the Sportsground (091-561568) and supporters are advised to purchase them in advance.

Stand tickets cost €15, ground tickets €10 with students and OAPs at €5.

Children will be admitted free and, as usual, there will be a host of activities available free of charge to children.

Supporters are asked to arrive at the ground early on Saturday and to note the earlier than usual kick-off time of 2pm.

Connacht (v Narbonne)

15. Mark McHugh

14. Matt Mostyn

13. Darren Yapp

12. Tim Allnutt (captain)

11. Conor McPhillips

10. Eric Elwood

9. Conor O’Loughlin

1.Dan McFarland