Smith says Connacht can push on as Challenge cup date with Pau confirmed

It will be the first time since 2003/04 that they have met the team from the Pyrenees, who are currently sixth in the Top 14 with seven wins from their 12 outings to date.

Sun, 21 Jan, 2024 - 20:16

John Fallon

Connacht winger Andrew Smith believes that their superb 27-10 Champions Cup win over Bristol Bears can turn their season around as they now go for glory on two fronts at the business end of the campaign.

The win ensures they will have European rugby in April when they will travel to France to take on Pau in the last 16 of the Challenge Cup.

It will be the first time since 2003/04 that they have met the team from the Pyrenees, who are currently sixth in the Top 14 with seven wins from their 12 outings to date.

Their only previous meeting was over two legs in the second round of the Challenge Cup almost two decades ago, winning 29-7 at the Sportsground and then going through to the next round after losing 10-6 in Pau a week later.

Smith was denied a spectacular try just after half-time against Bristol after harshly being judged to have touched the sideline, but he made no mistake a few later to cross for his first try for Connacht and secure a bonus point.

"I thought it was good but it doesn’t matter as I got the second one," said the 23-year old Dubliner.

The Irish sevens winger was brought in by coach Pete Wilkins last summer and he’s now hoping to push on after breaking his duck in his seventh game for Connacht.

"It was a big turning point and we’re delighted to get the job done and keep our European dreams alive so it’s really good,” he added.

"It's been a long start to the season and that was a big game for us.

"It means a lot. I’m delighted to get a few appearances this season and finally put in a performance. Happy days."

Connacht will be back in action when they travel to Cardiff on February 17, while they won’t be back at their newly named Dexcom Stadium until they play the Scarlets on March 2.

Elsewhere, Ulster will head to Montpellier for their Round of 16 clash. They drop down from the Champions Cup after their defeat to Harlequins on Saturday.

Challenge Cup Round of 16 April 5-7

Sharks v Zebre

Gloucester v Castres

Benetton v Lions

Clermont v Cheetahs

Montpellier v Ulster

Pau v Connacht

Ospreys v Sharks

Edinburgh v Bayonne