Copeland returns for Connacht Eagles

A THIGH injury has put Robin Copeland’s competitive senior Connacht debut on hold but the No 8 does at least return for the Eagles in their Celtic Cup clash in Wales against the Dragons today.

Copeland (inset) will be hoping to get some valuable minutes under his belt as he eyes a return to the senior squad next weekend.

Hooker Tom McCartney, who skippers the side, also provides plenty of experience in the pack as Connacht look to bounce back from last week’s defeat to Munster.

The Reds are also in Wales as they take on the Ospreys and head coach

Peter Malone has included Fineen Wycherley in the starting XV along with his younger brother Josh (loosehead), who is amongst the replacements.

Bill Johnston skippers the side from out-half, while Alex McHenry and South African Matt More will be eager to build on their midfield partnership.

Alan Tynan, who impressed for Young Munster in the AIL last season, starts in a more unfamiliar position on the wing.

Ireland Under-20s hooker Diarmuid Barron starts, as does Gavin Coombes, who has caught Johann van Graan’s eye from the back-row in recent weeks. Elsewhere, Leinster ‘A’ will be keen to build on their thumping win over Ulster, when they welcome the Cardiff Blues to Donnybrook (1.0).

Injuries have somewhat stalled former Ireland Under-20 skipper Jack Kelly’s progress but the fullback remains an exciting talent and will be looking at this season as his chance to break through.

Adam Byrne is on the wing, while Harry Byrne, younger brother of Ross, who was instrumental last week, will again pull the strings from out-half.

Mick Kearney and Ian Nagle are partnered in the engine room.