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The lead-up to an inter-provincial game evokes a heightened sense of fervour among rugby fans on this island.

Connacht Rugby has been dealt a blow ahead of the remaining URC fixtures with the loss of JJ Hanrahan.

Connacht head to Wales for Saturday’s round 15 URC fixture against the Dragons at Rodney Parade (8pm). The squad know their winning momentum must be maintained to keep quarter-final ambitions alive.

Connacht Rugby has enjoyed some memorable days on the European stage, and this week they are preparing to make a statement in the Challenge Cup.

Faced with the prospect of a sixth successive defeat in all competitions, Connacht overcame a New Year downpour when JJ Hanrahan’s accurate right boot saw them overcome injury-ravaged Munster in a 22-9 win at the Sportsground. The win breaks the duck of losses and boost the team ahead of next week’s Investec Champions Cup clash away to Lyons in France.

Connacht suffered their first defeat of the season in a narrow three-point loss to Edinburgh at the weekend. After three wins in their opening three games Connacht sit fifth in the table, one point off the leaders Bulls who they face next weekend.

Connacht's season concluded in South Africa with a loss to defending URC champions DHL Stormers, but having achieved one major ambition - to qualify for Champions Cup rugby next season.

Must-win games continue to come thick and fast for Connacht as they now prepare to face Ulster in the URC quarter-finals on Friday May 5.

Connacht are hopeful outhalf Jack Carty will be fully fit to start against the visiting Emirates Lions on Saturday evening at the Sportsground (7.35pm) in what is becoming a fight for the top eight.

Connacht take the next step on their European journey when they head to France for this week's Challenge Cup tie against Brive.