Pete Wilkins previews Newcastle clash

19 January 2023

Pete Wilkins previews Newcastle clash

The last two weeks have seen Connacht get back-to-back bonus points wins and scoring a total of 13 tries as they now get ready for the challenge of Newcastle Falcons away to secure a home fixtures in the Last 16.

Speaking ahead of the weekends game was Connacht Head coach Pete Wilkins who has been pleased with the sides performances the last two games.

"It's pleasing and its been something we've been aiming for every week with our attack"

"Things have clicked over the last couple of weeks and it continues to evolve"

"We played some cracking rugby against Brive but we need to build on that and set a new benchmark for ourselves and keep it going"

The quality of the opposition may have been questioned regards the strength of the teams sent over to The Sportsground from the Sharks and Brive but Connacht still had a job to do and wins like those along with the performances can bring great confidence and gel a team more.

"I think the way we dealt with those two games gave us a chance to evolve and work on combinations while developing our play in an attacking sense"

"On the other hand though, we've talked before about potential banana skins when teams are not at full strength or games you are expected to win"

"That Brive performance at the weekend, despite them having some first choice players left at home I thought it was a significant performance from our lads because we've talked for some time when teams are expected to win by 20 or 30 points that the good teams do it"

"Regardless of the opposition it was an important next step for us"

Qualification for the knockout stages were confirmed after last weekends win against Brive. Focus now turns to securing a home tie for the Last 16 which Pete knows may require a bonus point win.

"Getting a home knockout game for us is significant"

"The important thing for us initially was to qualify"

"Home games are an advantage and it would be great for us as we have a confidence and swagger about us on our pitch along with the great support of the fans"

The Connacht team for Saturday will be named on Friday.