Muldoon hails Loughney’s long service

CONNACHT captain John Muldoon paid tribute to all the players who are departing the province at the end of the season, and singled out Ronan Loughney for particular praise after his 12-year career at the Sportsground.

Muldoon and Loughney have been team-mates at the province since 2005 and after their side’s defeat to Scarlets last weekend, Muldoon thanked the Galway native for his years of service.

“He has been a great servant to Connacht rugby, he’s been through it all, and thankfully I have been beside him for many of those years,” said Muldoon.

“I think the biggest honour anyone can say is that you will never meet more of a gentleman than him, and Loughs, we’re sorry to see you go.

“Professional rugby is a very attritional game and we are standing here in very different circumstances to last year. But at the same time it is the same effort that goes on throughout the year. Without a big squad and without total commitment from everyone, players, staff and backroom staff, it just doesn’t happen on the day.

“Unfortunately, we have lots of lads leaving us and it’s a sad for us with the result and the performance not going how we wanted it. We wanted to send the lads away with a good result. We’re losing a lot of good friends and some great people.”

But with a Champions Cup play-off still to play for, Muldoon called on the supporters to back the team.

“Thanks to all the supporters who were here throughout the year. it’s not where we wanted to be. We still have a couple of games left, so stick with us.”