Famed All Black Muliaina to make Connacht debut against Italian visitors

ORDINARILY, this clash has as much appeal as a soggy sandwich.
Tonight’s (7.35pm) meeting with Zebre at the Sportsground is probably Connacht’s least attractive fixture of the season. The annual away clash with the minnows isn’t much more tempting either. But at least in the reverse leg there’s still the novelty factor . . . and travelling supporters get to sample the local delights that Italy has to offer. It’s a good time, so, for head coach Pat Lam to spice things up and unleash his new New Zealand star signings.
All-Black legend Mils Muliaina, who was capped 100 times for his country, makes his first appearance on the field of play for Connacht this evening, adding more than a sprinkle of glamour to what would otherwise be a harmless enough fixture. Lam head-hunted Muliaina, and financially outmuscled the other provinces in order to lure him west of the Shannon, signalling his real intent to propel Connacht ahead of the other three.
The record-breaking deal reportedly cost Connacht €300,000 for a one-year contract. At 34 years of age, having scored 34 international tries in a career spanning eight years, Muliaina has little left to prove: He’s been there, bought the t-shirt.
Yet, much will still be expected of him. Connacht isn’t exactly flush with cash and the Connacht branch, their paymasters in the IRFU – and the more important paymasters in the terraces – will want to see a return on their investment.
In fairness, Muliaina, who has been sidelined through injury since arriving on these shores, has proved a useful marketing tool for Connacht. His name alone has helped to recruit other players – and will do so for years to come. His presence, too, has probably boosted season ticket sales, and helped in negotiations with advertising partners. Muliaina has also been a huge presence on the training field, and has helped to earn his crust so far through mentoring of Connacht’s young talent.
But in terms of playing – the payback starts tonight! And not before time. Connacht supporters have waited months to catch a glimpse of Muliaina in action and there should be a decent crowd and buzz about College Road.
For more, read this week’s Galway City Tribune.