Bradley makes four changes

CONNACHT coach Michael Bradley has made four changes to the side that lost to a controversial injury-time penalty against the Ospreys for Saturday’s European Challenge Cup tie against Italy’s Armatori Catania.

And further changes may be required ahead of Saturday’s tie at the Sportsground as hooker John Fogarty (rib cartilage) and centre John Hearty (hamstring) are both doubtful.

“We will see how they improve as the week goes on but we have a good squad and there are quality players ready to slot into their positions if they are not fit,” said Bradley.

Three of the changes are up front with Fogarty selected to take over from Joe Merrigan, while in the back row Colm Rigney and Matt Lacey return, replacing Michael Swift and Brendan O’Connor.

Meanwhile, Bradley has swooped for Tongan international Andrew Mailei. Centre Malei will sign from New Zealand side North Harbour. He is due to arrive at the Sportsground next month.

Mailei, 25, is the first international from any of the Pacific Islands to join the Irish province and is to play a prominent role due to the long-term absence of Mark McHugh.

CONNACHT: M Mostyn; C McPhillips, J Hearty, K Matthews, D Yapp; P Warwick, C Keane; R Hogan, J Fogarty, S Knoop; C Short, A Farley; J Muldoon, M Lacey, C Rigney.

Replacements: D McFarland, J Merrigan, A Clarke, D Gannon, B O’Connor, C O’Loughlin, T Robinson.