Challenge in the Alps for Connacht

Connacht will face French resistance head-on in the Alps this evening with a European Challenge Cup semi-final at stake.

Pat Lam’s side face Bernard Jackman’s Grenoble at Stade des Alpes (8.05pm Irish), with more than enough Irish connections to add an extra dimension to what is expected to be a fascinating duel.

Connacht travelled to Grenoble via Geneva yesterday with a larger than normal supporting contingent — such is the expectation they can match their top Pro12 form in the Challenge Cup, and nail down a home semi-final.