Connacht look to old heads for tough Montpellier test

CONNACHT’S European qualification credentials receive their first real test this evening in France when they face Montpellier at Stade Yves du Manoir (7pm).

The two sides are no strangers, having played in the European Challenge Cup for three successive seasons, 2004 to 06, but the significance of tonight’s fixture has been heightened by Montpellier’s first round shock victory over pool 2 favourites Worcester.

That 22-17 victory at Sixways on the opening weekend was Montpellier’s first away in Europe, while Connacht’s was a predictable 46–6 victory over newcomers Olympus Madrid. Whichever teams wins tonight will be in pole position to top Pool 2.