Connacht sign Academy talent

Connacht have signed props Ronan Loughney and Michael Diffley, hooker Joe Merrigan and back Danny Riordan from the Provincial Academy to development contracts.

“It is a big boost given that the academy is only in its first season. It is ironic that at a time when front row players are supposed to be scarce, that three of the four contracts have gone to players in these positions,” said Connacht CEO Gerry Kelly.