Sligo’s Hubert Gilvarry has been named on the Connacht senior rugby matchday squad for this Friday’s opening United Rugby Championship game against Cardiff at the Arms Park.
The former Sligo Grammar School pupil has been included by head coach Andy Friend as replacement scrum-half for the game.
Head coach Andy Friend said: “In Hubert Gilvarry, we have another Connacht native ready to make his debut if called upon. I know his inclusion in the matchday 23 will be a very proud day for all at Sligo RFC and Sligo Grammar School.”
🟢TEAM ANNOUNCEMENT🟢
Here is your team for our United Rugby Championship clash against @Cardiff_Rugby!
Mack Hansen will make his debut in Cardiff tomorrow, with a possible debut off the bench for Sligo’s Hubert Gilvarr!
Kick off at 19:35, LIVE on @SportTG4 #StrengthInNumbers pic.twitter.com/bPvQf7VkOi
— Connacht Rugby (@connachtrugby) September 23, 2021
Connacht’s newsigning Mack Hansen is set to make his debut having been named on the wing. Fellow Aussie John Porch is named on the other wing with Tiernan O’Halloran operating at full-back.
Tom Farrell starts his first competitive game since November after his serious knee injury, with the 28-year old named in the centre alongside Tom Daly who makes his 50th appearance for the province. Irish internationals Kieran Marmion and Jack make up the half-back pairing.
Club captain Jarrad Butler is named at number 8 alongside flankers Cian Prendergast and Conor Oliver, while Oisín Dowling and Ultan Dillane start together in the second row.
The new United Rugby Championship (URC) replaces the PRO14 this season.
Friday night’s game kicks-off at 7:35pm and will be televised live on TG4.
