Connacht have been busy preparing for next season; John O’Sullivan has a look at the incoming talent…
Not as publicised and no where near as ludicrously priced as our footballing neighbours "Transfer Window", there have been many rugby players who have agreed to "transfers" and will commit their futures to different clubs at the beginning of next season.
Connacht have been especially active in their player recruitment for next season, somewhat softening the blow of losing Mike McCarthy to provincial rivals, Leinster.
As well as appointing a new coach, Pat Lam, Connacht have agreed deals with three Irish qualified players, including a return to the club of two former players; Fionn Carr and Sean Henry; while also agreeing a deal with current Exeter and former Glasgow lock, Aly Muldowney.
Carr spent several years at Connacht before re-joining his home province, Leinster, two seasons ago. At best, Carr had a marginal role at Leinster; mainly playing A games and making sporadic Rabo appearances. Carr's lack of game time at the three time European champions led to many people, particularly Connacht fans, to criticise the Kildare mans decision to join Leinster. But, in retrospect, it was hard to blame Carr for returning home. After all, what player would turn down their boyhood heroes, especially when they are, perhaps, the greatest European club side in history.
Undoubtedly, training under Joe Schmidt and with the likes of Brian O'Driscoll, Isa Nacewa et al, will have improved Carr as a player, which, quite obviously, is good news for Connacht.
With O'Halloran, Vainikolo and now Carr, the Sportsground club look in rude health in the wingers department.
Another position which Connacht have significant cover in is hooker. The return of Sligo born Sean Henry, who previously represented the Westerners at U20's level, means that Connacht have four solid options at hooker. Aside from the current incumbent, Jason Harris-Wright, Connacht also have Adrian Flavin, Ethienne Reynecke, and now Henry. Who will be Connacht's first choice number two next season will be extremely interesting.
Mike McCarthy's departure left a vacancy in Connacht's second row options, this was, however, quickly rectified with the signing of Exeter lock Aly Muldowney. Irish qualified through his Newbridge born father, he is a former basketball player and is regarded as a solid line out operator and ball carrier. At thirty years old, Muldowney could potentially forge an exciting and experienced second row combination with club legend Michael Swift.
With the departures of Sexton and Conway from Leinster, the probable desertion of BJ Botha from Munster and with Ulster being surprisingly frugal, Connacht will feel that their preparations for next season are the best in the country.
Time will tell…
I’m John O’Sullivan, 20. Part time student, full time sports nut. Love rugby and am currently the PRO of Connemara RFC. I also do some radio work for my local station. One day, I would love to be a Sports Journalist/Broadcaster.
