Faced with the prospect of a sixth successive defeat in all competitions, Connacht overcame a New Year downpour when JJ Hanrahan’s accurate right boot saw them overcome injury-ravaged Munster in a 22-9 win at the Sportsground. The win breaks the duck of losses and boost the team ahead of next week’s Investec Champions Cup clash away to Lyons in France.
Connacht s season concluded in South Africa with a loss to defending URC champions DHL Stormers, but having achieved one major ambition - to qualify for Champions Cup rugby next season.
Connacht head to England for their final European Challenge Cup pool fixture on Saturday (5.30pm ) looking to maintain this season’s 100 per cent record. A bonus-point win against Newcastle Falcons is the target, and this would ensure Connacht qualify with the best possible seeding as they face into next round in which Heineken Cup teams will be included.