'We will miss having the Clan Terrace in full voice': Connacht preparing for new normal

Andy Friend is in no doubt that if he had 15 Bundee Akis on the pitch he wouldn’t need to worry about the lack of atmosphere

A general view of the Sportsground in Glaway, which grounds all around the country, will have no spectators for the early part of the season at least. Picture: INPHO/Tommy Dickson

Connacht coach Andy Friend says he will not be adding to his squad for the new season and he’s confident that they can bid for silverware if they manage to avoid large scale injuries.

The much-travelled Australian is heading into his third season at the Sportsground and, similar to coaches all over the world, is trying to turn out a professional team in the midst of a global pandemic.