CONNACHT’S INJURY CRISIS has been eased somewhat by the addition of a trio of new faces to Pat Lam’s squad.
The western province, who will aim to avoid a fourth consecutive defeat when they host Zebre in the Champions Cup on Saturday, have been hampered substantially by injury problems in recent weeks.
Reinforcements have subsequently been required as they turn their attentions back to European action following successive Guinness Pro12 losses to Ulster, Munster and Ospreys.
The Pro12 champions have confirmed the signing of 23-year-old centre Tom Farrell from Bedford Blues, which the English Championship club announced yesterday. The former Ireland U20 international moved to Bedford last summer after leaving Leinster.
As was reported by The42 last night, Pat Lam has brought in 23-year-old out-half Steve Crosbie — who can also play in midfield — following the conclusion of his three-month development deal with Munster. Another ex-Ireland U20 international who came through the Leinster Academy, Crosbie made two Pro12 appearances for Leinster in the 2014/15 season.
Peter McCabe will also head to Connacht from Munster on a loan deal. The 24-year-old Cork native made his senior debut for the southern province in their Pro12 win against Ospreys in November. He also played in the victory over the Maori All Blacks a week later.
Very good read i cant wait for huge Gavin to play for them look’s like all irish side’s have plenty of dept and strength
Murray, you left Shayne Bolton out of your back 3 assessments, probably the most explosive back in the squad, behind Mack, of course!
@Mary Corrigan: Was that him running in tries against Glasgow? looks a tidy player.
@Thesaltyurchin: Yes, it was!
@Mary Corrigan: Hope he can stay healthy!!! Really want this lad to get some luck this season…Pace and Power bottled.
At some stage this season hoping that we have Santi @ FB, Mack and Bolton on the wings!!
That’s a tasty back 3!
I’ve a feeling Ioane is going to be a dud signing. The Chiefs fans I’ve come across online are delighted to be getting rid of him
@5sZl1dX2: Sometimes a player needs a change of scene to recapture his form
Some gems in the Connacht Squad, Gavin, Ioane, Cordero who should make their mark this season.I still feel Connacht is the IRFUs greatest uptapped opportunity for a number of reasons.
Firstly there are quality players at Leinster who wont get much game time, think Scott Penney, Harry Byrne or Rob Rusell. All would be in the mix for a Connacht European match day 23
Secondly the current Connacht squad is particularly week in the front five. Just investing in acquiring 3 international players at SR, LH and Hooker would substantially level up Connacht and make those European away games more winnable for them. Wish the IRFU would allocate a few million more to Connacht and help them move into ERC knock out contenders
@Owen ODonoghue: One thing connacht never lack for are speedy outside backs, so Russell might not get many more games than at Leinster. Penny would at best be 2nd choice at 7 to Moose, who was Connacht’s best player in a strong back row. You’re mostly right about the tight five, but our international locks (Dillane and Thornbury) moved on because Connacht couldn’t afford to hold onto them, especially with RO’G headhunting Dillane.