Connacht Unveils New Look XV for URC Opener Against Benetton

BREAKING: Connacht Rugby is set to kick off the 2025/26 URC season tonight against Benetton Rugby, featuring a dramatically revamped starting lineup that sees only four players retained from last season’s final match. This bold move marks the beginning of the Stuart Lancaster era in Galway.

The highly anticipated match will take place on Saturday, September 30, 2023, at 19:45 (IRE & UK) | 20:45 (ITA & SA) at Dexcom Stadium. Fans can catch the live action on TG4, Premier Sports, SuperSport, FloRugby, and URC.tv.

In a surprising twist, only Josh Murphy, Hurley-Langton, Paul Boyle, and Shayne Bolton retain their places in the starting XV, highlighting Lancaster’s commitment to fresh talent and innovative combinations. The shift comes despite Connacht being initially favored by -7.5 points, a margin that has adjusted to -6 as Benetton announced a nearly full-strength squad.

Sean Naughton will make his BKT URC debut at full-back, while Paul Boyle captains the side, marking his 117th cap. The starting pack features a robust back row of Boyle, Shamus Hurley-Langton, and Sean Jansen, with Niall Murray and Josh Murphy anchoring the second row. The formidable front row includes Dylan Tierney-Martin, Peter Dooley, and Sam Illo.

Behind the scrum, an electrifying half-back partnership of Caolin Blade and Josh Ioane will lead the charge, supported by Cathal Forde and Byron Ralston in midfield, while an agile back three features Shayne Bolton and Chay Mullins alongside Naughton.

Benetton arrives with a powerful lineup, showcasing Italian internationals like Michele Lamaro, Tommaso Menoncello, and Malakai Fekitoa. Notably, Ivan Nemer celebrates his 50th cap, while newcomers Louis Werchon and So’otala Fa’aso’o are set to make their debuts. Jacob Umaga will direct the play at fly-half, bolstered by talents Onisi Ratave and Louis Lynagh on the wings.

“It’s been a really pleasing pre-season for us. We had two good wins against Bristol and Sale followed by a camp in Westport, so I believe we’re set up well to hit the ground running. Benetton are a strong side full of internationals, and every point is vital. I know there’s lots of excitement around the province so I’m sure the fans will harness that energy into getting behind the group for this opener,” Lancaster stated.

Benetton Head Coach Calum MacRae acknowledged, “We have a lot of respect for Connacht. The important thing will be to apply constant pressure and play with intensity from the start.”

Both teams previously faced off in a thrilling encounter last March, where a depleted Connacht edged out a narrow 38-30 victory. As they meet again tonight, Connacht aims to capitalize on its league-best 91.4% lineout success from last season, while also looking to improve on their 2.55 points per 22 entry, the lowest in the URC.

This match promises to be a tight, physical contest, and if Connacht can dominate the lineout and convert scoring opportunities, Lancaster could celebrate a successful debut as head coach. Expect an intense battle tonight in Galway.

PREDICTION: Connacht to win by 4–6 points.