Connacht head into the lion’s den against resurgent Toulouse outfit

THESE are challenging times for Connacht. three big games, two against European rugby’s elite sides, Leinster thought them a lesson two weeks ago, Montpellier offered a chance at redemption which they took in stunning fashion and now another side in the category of Leinster, French champions Toulouse await.

This is another level for Connacht. They are visiting the Stade Ernest-Wallon on Saturday (kick off, 1pm Irish time) for the fourth time this decade, but this occasion is different than all the others. In 2012 when they lost bravely, in 2013 when they recorded one of the competition’s greatest ever upsets and even in 2016 when they lost by nine points after a strong effort, all of those games came during a period of transition for Toulouse.

Today, it’s a different tale. A stunning season last year saw them capture their first French Championship since 2012 losing just three games in 28 during the campaign. They reached the last four of the Champions Cup for good measure and this year they are looking to end a nine-year wait for more success in this competition. It would be a record breaking fifth tile, they feel it’s long overdue.

So into the lion’s den go Connacht. They are in good shape in the pool after the opening day win, safe in the knowledge that defeat of any kind on Saturday will not scupper their quarter final hopes with the back-to-back fixtures against Gloucester in just a few short week’s time, far more telling in terms of their ability to reach the last eight for the very first time.

Speaking of Gloucester, well, Toulouse went there last Friday night and won in impressive fashion ,overcoming the concession of two breakaway first half tries that gave the hosts a 17 point lead to end up winning by five, with 22 unanswered points in the second half. They managed 70% possession and territory in the game and the cherry and whites had to make three times as many tackles.

A worry for Connacht will be the Toulouse lineout which was perfect during the contest and managed to nab seven of Gloucester’s throw ins for good measure. That could be their target again at the weekend as they look to dominate at the set piece. That includes the scrum, where they are notably strong with Cyril Baillle and Charlie Faumuina internationally recognised as among the best in the world.

For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.

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