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Page last updated at 12:17 GMT, Tuesday, 14 October 2008 13:17 UK

Connacht excited by 'glamour' tie

Michael Bradley
Bradley's side beat Dax 30-12 in France on Friday

Connacht are expecting a capacity crowd for Friday evening's visit of London Irish in the European Challenge Cup.

With both sides winning their opening group matches, the match in Galway is likely to be key in deciding the pool.

Connacht coach Michael Bradley said there is great excitement in the province about this game.

He said: "It's going to be a big ask but ever since the fixtures were announced we have been looking forward to what really is a glamour match."

Bradley added: "London Irish are a pretty formidable club with plenty of pace out wide and power up front and it is going to be a tough gig for us but also one we relish.

Our fans have been really looking forward to coming to watch the game

Connacht coach Michael Bradley
"They have already put 28 points on Sale Sharks, won at Harlequins - which is no mean feat - and beaten London Wasps so I am sure they are a team really going places in the Premiership.

"However, we are playing very well in our home matches and after a tight game against the Ospreys we have beaten Glasgow Warriors and Leinster in Galway so we cannot wait to play London Irish in front of a full house on Friday night.

"Our fans have been really looking forward to coming to watch the game and the players to competing against one of the best teams around."

Connacht v London Irish kicks off at 1900 BST on Friday 17 October and you can hear live commentary on BBC Radio Berkshire.


see also
Exiles prepare for greater test
13 Oct 08 |  London Irish
Connacht 19-18 Leinster
05 Oct 08 |  Irish


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