CONNACHT HAVE NAMED their team to play Exeter in the second round of European Challenge Cup matches at Sandy Park on Saturday.
With ten players unavailable and Ospreys to come in the Guinness Pro12 six days later, head coach Pat Lam has made eight changes to the team which defeated La Rochelle at the Sportsground last weekend.
Denis Buckley comes in at loosehead prop while Michael Swift and Mick Kearney both return to the second row. Andrew Browne and George Naoupu are named in the back row and there are places for Niyi Adeolokun, Dave McSharry and Ian Porter in the back line.
With John Muldoon rested, Nathan White is handed the captaincy.
“Once again we have a very tough test in front of us and on the road. Exeter are flying high in the premiership and we expect them to name a very strong side at home,” said Lam.
“It’s going to be a great match because you have two teams that I believe are quite similar in the way they work extremely hard for each other and rely on team work.
“It’s good to be able to bring the experience and size of Michael (Swift), Mick (Kearney) and Andrew (Browne) into what is going to be another physical challenge. Their availability allows us to use our squad effectively ahead of another tough game away to Ospreys six days later.
After playing well at inside centre for the last few games, Craig (Ronaldson) gets a well-deserved opportunity to lead the team from outhalf, with the experience of Dave McSharry outside him.
“We’ve been pleased with the performances of Danny (Qualter) and young Caolin (Blade) with the Eagles’ team this season and it’s great for both of them to get an opportunity this week.“
Connacht v Exeter
15. Darragh Leader
14. Niyi Adeolokun
13. Robbie Henshaw
12. Dave McSharry
11. Danie Poolman
10. Craig Ronaldson
9. Ian Porter
1. Denis Buckley
2. Jason Harris-Wright
3. Nathan White (c)
4. Michael Swift
5. Mick Kearney
6. Andrew Browne
7. Willie Faloon
8. George Naoupu
Replacements:
16. Dave Heffernan
17. Ronan Loughney
18. Rodney Ah You
19. Aly Muldowney
20. Danny Qualter
21. Caolin Blade
22. Jack Carty
23. Fionn Carr
