Connacht’s Robin Copeland under pressure from Bristol’s Luke Daniels and Harry Thacker. Source: James Crombie/INPHO
Bristol Bears 12
Connacht 14
John Fallon reports from Ashton Gate
CONNACHT CONTINUED THEIR excellent pre-season with a third win in a row since Andy Friend took charge as a star-studded Bristol side were put to the sword.
It was no more than Connacht deserved for a fine display and they will head into the Pro14 next weekend full of confidence
Connacht enjoyed the greater possession in the first half but still went in trailing 5-0 at the break.
This was the final preparation match for both teams, with Friend’s Connacht taking on Glasgow Warriors next weekend while Pat Lam’s Bristol open with a huge derby clash with Bath.
It was a useful workout for both sides at Ashton Gate on a rainy evening in Bristol in front of a small crowd.
Bristol are the big spenders in the Premiership this season but the difference in budget wasn’t apparent during the opening half. Connacht did the early pressing, with centres Kyle Godwin and Tom Farrell impressing, but Bristol’s defence was good.
Bristol defence coach John Muldoon and head coach Pat Lam before the game. Source: James Crombie/INPHO
Bristol made their first attack count, with full-back Luke Daniels — signed after impressing for Ealing Trailfinders against Lam’s men in February — crossing after 15 minutes. Ian Madigan was unable to land the conversion from the left.
The second half was a more fluid affair, with Matt Healy sliding over for a fine try in the left corner after 45 minutes which was superbly converted by Jack Carty.
Academy product Andy Uren hit back for Bristol, before Madigan converted to leave Bristol leading 12-7 after 51 minutes.
However, good pressure by Friend’s men produced a first ever Connacht try for promising flanker Paul Boyle after a tapped penalty. Craig Ronaldson converted to make it 14-12 to Connacht.
Bristol, who lost their major summer signing Charles Piutau to a worrying shoulder injury, fought back but couldn’t find a way through a disciplined Connacht defence.
Bristol Bears scorers:
Tries: L Daniels, A Uren