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Munster 35

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.

European rugby returns to the Galway Sportsground on Saturday (5.30pm), bringing with it an added sense of occasion, helped by festive cheer.

Connacht make their first home appearance of the season, and they do not come much bigger than Irish rivals Munster.

It was always going to be a tough start to the season - an interpro in Belfast and two away fixtures in South Africa - one against the current URC champions.

Connacht kick off the home season tomorrow with a highly attractive fixture against top English club Sale Sharks at Dubarry Park (7pm).

Mack Hansen, Andy Friend's Australian find, has signed a new contract that keeps him at the Sportsground till 2025.