Parks looking to upset Glasgow’s play-off plans

Former Glasgow flyhalf Dan Parks admitted he would love to scupper the Scottish side’s quest for a home semi-final in the Rabo PRO12 play-offs, by helping Connacht to a win over the Warriors at the Sportsground this weekend.

Glasgow secured their spot in the play-offs with a 35-17 win over defending PRO12 champions Ospreys last time out but they’ll need a maximum points haul in Galway if they are to enjoy a home semi-final.

Having spent seven years at Scotstoun, Parks was pleased to see his old club perform well this season, but admitted he wants to end his first season at Connacht with a win over his former employers.

"It is a bit of a tricky one," Parks told the Scottish Herald. "But Connacht are my team now.

“I'd love to win for Connacht. But I've also been really happy to see Glasgow do so well this season.”

Glasgow have re-energised the Scottish challenge in the PRO12, reaching the play-offs for the second consecutive season.

They reached the summit of the league table during an impressive first season under head coach Gregor Townsend, but have since fallen behind Ulster and Leinster.

Parks believes Townsend deserves credit for the way the team have developed under him during his first season in charge.

"This is the second season straight that they've got themselves into the play-offs, so they are obviously a really strong team now.

“They've recruited some really good players and been tough to beat all season long.

"Speaking to people who are still at the club, everyone talks of how well the season has gone.

“Obviously, Gregor Townsend has done some very good things as the new coach and everyone is pretty happy with what's going on."