ANYONE who doubted Michael Swift’s ability to last the pace and stay the course with Connacht would be red-faced as the big lock forward gets ready to square up to European heavyweights Toulouse at the Sportsgrounds on Saturday.

Connacht continue their drive to recontract players by signing prop Brett Wilkinson and flanker Ray Ofisa to two-year contract extensions.

Connacht have completed the signing of versatile Natal Sharks front rower Frik Venter ahead of the new season.

Connacht 11 Beziers 13 (Agg 29-23)

ERIC ELWOOD is back to lead the Connacht challenge for a place in the Celtic Cup final at the Sportsground, Galway, tomorrow (2.p.m.), but there is no place for captain Tim Allnutt.

Leinster 21 Connacht 6

Connacht coach Michael Bradley has announced that Tim Allnutt will captain the province for the coming season - the 29 year old also led the province last year before a serious knee injury terminated his season.

Connacht, the only side in the Celtic League with a 100% record after five games, have made seven changes from the side that defeated Bridgend for Saturday's top of the table clash with Pontypridd at the Galway Sportsground (kick-off 3 pm).

Bridgend 23 Connacht 24

Buccaneers 19 Blackrock College 26