Connolly in a league of his own

IT may be quite hard for Irish people to understand, but for top rugby league stars in the UK, their lives are every bit as much of public interest as their soccer counterparts - more so in many ways.

Former Great Britain star Gary Connolly lived life in that goldfish bowl for nearly 17 years. These days, however, he plies his trade with Munster in the union code. A life away from tabloid hacks and screaming headlines suit him fine. It has allowed him enjoy the latter part of his career simply because he can concentrate on doing what he does best - giving 100% effort on the field of play.

This weekend’s game against Sale may, depending on the outcome, could turn out to be his Munster swan song, as he was only contracted to play with the team until the end of the group stages of the Heineken Cup, but with the option of extending his stay should they progress.