History is against Connacht

Date Published: 28-Nov-2008

CONNACHT will be striving to secure their first victory over Ulster at Ravenhill in 48 years when they travel North for this evening’s vital Magners League derby clash (7:30pm).

But Michael Bradley’s side must field without inspirational captain John Muldoon, who has sustained a calf injury and could be out for a number of weeks. As a result, Ireland international Gavin Duffy is set to captain Connacht for the first time this evening.

Indeed, there are several changes to the side that lost miserably to Edinburgh in October, with Keith Matthews – having recovered from a calf injury – making his first appearance for the province since Connacht took on Glasgow in September.

Matthews is joined at outside centre by Mel Deane with Fionn Carr and Troy Nathan lining out on the wings. Ian Keatley and Frank Murphy return to renew their half-back partnership.

In the pack …