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Thorn In My Side

Athlone Duo Retained As Connacht Tackle Two-Time European Champions

Friday, 17 December 2021 16:12

Andy Friend named his side this afternoon.

Bundee Aki returns to the Connacht centre for Sunday’s trip to Leicester. 

He’s been missing since suffering a knee injury prior to Ireland’s win over Argentina last month. 

Tiernan O’Halloran and Kieran Marmion come into the backs, while Dave Heffernan, Finlay Bealham and Ultan Dillane are restored to the front-five. 

Athlone pair Jack Carty and Niall Murray retain their places, with Carty captaining the side as usual. 

Commenting on the selection to ConnachtRugby.ie, Head Coach Andy Friend says:

“We’re under no illusions we face one of the biggest challenges in European rugby on Sunday, but it’s also very exciting and exactly the kind of occasion you want to play in.

We’ve brought in a lot of experience which will stand to us for a game like this, and there’s some powerful options on the bench as well. Tietie Tuimauga has settled in very well so Sunday will be a great stage for him to make his debut if called upon.”

Connacht XV + Replacements:

15. Tiernan O’Halloran 

14. John Porch 

13. Sammy Arnold 

12. Bundee Aki 

11. Alex Wootton 

10. Jack Carty (C)

9. Kieran Marmion 

1. Mattthew Burke 

2. Dave Heffernan 

3. Finlay Bealham 

4. Ultan Dillane 

5. Niall Murray 

6. Cian Prendergast 

7. Conor Oliver 

8. Jarrad Butler 

Replacements:

16. Shane Delahunt 

17. Tietie Tuimauga 

18. Jack Aungier 

19. Leva Fifita 

20. Abraham Papali’i 

21. Caolin Blade 

22. Conor Fitzgerald 

23. Diarmuid Kilgallen 

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