Connacht and Ulster are clashing here in Galway this evening, and Galway Hospice will be there to raise funds through a bucket collection.
There’s huge anticipation ahead of this match as Ulster are coming to Galway to pay Connacht back for a 22-15 defeat in Belfast in October.
This was the first time in 58 years that Connacht had managed to top the Ulstermen on their home ground.
While you’re down enjoying the match, take a moment to stop by and show your support Galway Hospice’s work looking after the most vulnerable among us.
In partnership with @connachtrugby we will be at the Sportsground this evening trying to raise funds for Galway Hospice through a bucket collection. Please come and say hello. Your support would be greatly appreciated. pic.twitter.com/DjuzqxEHgd
— Galway Hospice (@GalwayHospice) December 28, 2018
Speaking ahead of the game, Head Coach Andy Friend says his side are fully aware of the challenge that an in form Ulster side will present.
“These interpro fixtures are massive occasions and when they take place over the Christmas period, they bring that increased level of excitement.”
“We know there will be a big home crowd in the Sporstground and we will need to be up for the occasion with Ulster coming to town.”
“This block of fixtures is hugely important in the context of our season, but we are not looking beyond Ulster on Friday evening.”
Quin Roux and Sean O’Brien have returned to Connacht’s starting line-up ahead of the interprovincial clash this evening.
This is one of a number of changes that have been made to the side after a narrow defeat by Leinster at the RDS last week.
“Commenting on the team selection Andy Friend said “Quinn Roux and Sean O’Brien are fit and ready to go and they come back into the side. They have been two of our top performers this season, so they will give us increased options.”
“In the front row we also have Shane Delahunt and Conor Carey coming in. These are two other players who have been going really well over the past few weeks.”
“We have some real depth in these positions so it is great for us as coaches to have these options and to bring in fresh legs and know that they are ready to go.”
“Ulster are coming off the back of a great win over Munster and I’m sure they will come to the Sportsground full of confidence.”
The match kicks off at 7:35pm at the Sportsground.
