Connacht are still lacking the resources to replace international call-ups, writes John O’Sullivan
Connacht perpetuated their disappointing record away to Scarlets' with another loss at the home of the Welsh region.
Many people feared Connacht's physical and emotional investment in this seasons Heineken Cup campaign would be detrimental to the Westerner’s league form; and, unfortunately, this prediction seems to have come to fruition.
There are, however, positives to be taken from the wreckage of Connacht's 25-15 defeat. With four tries this season, utility back Danie Poolman appears to be settling in nicely and looks sure to be a key player for Connacht for the coming seasons.
Collecting a cross field kick from Dan Parks, Poolman strode over the line for a try of supreme skill.
Parks will rightly receive kudos for his assist for Poolman, and his conversion and drop goal but the undisputed star of the show was his opposite number, Owen Williams.
The twenty year old fly half ruthlessly punished Connacht's indiscipline with six penalties and converting South African lock Johan Snyman's try.
With five minutes remaining the Sportsground men were losing 25-8, and henceforth went hell for leather to try and salvage an unlikely losing point. Their attempts proved futile, though, despite Michael Swifts try which Parks converted.
Connacht were missing key players from their squad due to international obligations, Henshaw, McCarthy, McSharry, the triumvirate’s international selection is a compliment to Connacht, but their absence was sorely felt.
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.
