In-form Poolman braced for Basque backlash

Connacht winger Danie Poolman said qualification for the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup is in their own hands as they head to France to take on Bayonne.

Pat Lam’s men trail unbeaten Exeter Chiefs by a point and with the Aviva Premiership side yet to come to the Sportsground in January — where Connacht are unbeaten in seven this season.

South African Poolman crossed for two opening half tries to set up a 42-19 win over Bayonne at the weekend, but the 25-year old expects a backlash from the Basque side this Saturday.