Rugby: Connaught defeat Roma

Connaught created a shock upset in Rome last night to continue their excellent start to the season and create a momentous record of their own.

The win in the European Shield tournament marked the first time that the province have won five matches in a row and it seems to confirm that Irish provincial rugby at least is in excellent condition.

Steph Nel’s side battled hard in the sweltering Italian heat and at times looked like they would not achieve their fifth win despite leading 17 points to 3 at the break.

Connaught made tough work of the second half and put themselves under pressure after Johnny O’Connor with six minutes to go.

However, Mark McHugh landed an injury time penalty to finally put the game beyond doubt.

The final score was Connaught 20 points, Roma 10.