Andy Friend defends Connacht selection after Newcastle defeat

ON THE DEFENSIVE: Connacht director of rugby Andy Friend. Pic: Bruce White/Sportsfile

Andy Friend has defended the side selected for Saturday's final Challenge Cup pool game at Newcastle Falcons, where a  35-21 loss sees them having to travel away to Benetton in the last 16 knockout match.

A bonus point win which would have seen them remain in Ireland all the way to the final never looked like materialising as an understrength side, particularly in a malfunctioning backline where even Irish international Mack Hansen looked out of sorts at No.15, were blitzed by a Falcons side who were eliminated from the competition before the game kicked off.