Connacht aiming to end campaign on a high

Failure to manage a bonus point in last weekend’s loss to Harlequins has made it mathematically impossible to catch pool runners-up Biarritz, but pride and a third Heineken Cup win are at stake for Connacht this evening.

Connacht have beaten Italian visitors Zebre twice already this season — a 30-17 victory in the RaboDirect Pro12 early in the season and a closer 19-10 win in the Heineken Cup — both away from home. However, Connacht coach Eric Elwood says his side will not be taking anything for granted tonight.

“We are not happy with the manner of the defeat against Harlequins and now we have an opportunity here. But we need a workmanlike performance and precision in our execution. We win games by everyone chipping in and putting their shoulders to the wheel and this evening’s match is no exception. Nothing will be easy, it will be hard fought.