CONNACHT COACH PAT Lam believes they are not far off reaching the standard of play which saw them capture the Pro12 title a year ago.
And while they were turned over 37-24 by a second string Leinster side in their own backyard on Saturday night, Lam believes they can finish on a high before he departs for Bristol in the summer by securing Champions Cup rugby in the play-offs.
“I spoke to John Muldoon about it, we are not far off, it’s just fine margins. The little things are hurting us, last year they were going our way, this year they aren’t.
“We’re not getting the rub of the green on calls as well. But as long as the effort is there and the opportunities are there, it is up to us to take them and obviously not give the other team opportunities.
“I’d be sitting here frustrated if we were losing it were a no-show and we never looked like scoring. There are a lot of good learnings and the experience will hold them in good stead. There is belief we can beat any team and it is just having the ability to execute it.”
He was disappointed that they did not mark Muldoon’s historic 300th appearance on Saturday night with a win but acknowledged that Leo Cullen has massive strength in depth.
“You have to give credit to Leinster. It’s not necessarily about the individuals but about the whole structure that they have in defence and attack.
“It is significantly improved on last year and that is great to see. And through that, the individuals can shine, the young guys are coming through with clear ideas and that is good for Irish rugby,” added Lam.
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