ALAN MURPHY’S 10 man Connacht came from a goal down to clinch an historic win in dramatic fashion in the AUL Complex this afternoon – and ensuring a gut-wrenching ending for Paul Browne’ Ulster.
The Connacht side needed a win in their final test which saw them up against 2016 Champions Ulster who had notched up two fine victories in the build up to match day three.
Ulster were in a commanding position heading into this clash with only a draw required for them to claim a podium finish.
Connacht were looking to upset the odds and that they did, be it under controversial circumstances.
The Westerners were down to ten following the dismissal of Charlie Concannon after just two minutes, followed moments later by an exasperated Murphy who also got his marching orderings.
To further add to their frustrations, Connacht conceded in the 18th minute when Virginia College pupil Aaron McCabe pounced on a terrific through ball from Mikey Friel to convert brilliantly.
A tense exchange ensued for most of the first half but Connacht got their composure back and were leading at the break.
A purple patch three minutes from time saw Colin Kelly beat Kyle Burns between the posts to equalise magnificently with Adam Lynch assisting. A fourth goal in the campaign for the St. Joseph’s jewel.
Then four minutes into additional time, playmaker Lynch got himself on the scoresheet with a screamer from distance following some excellent work by Summerhill colleague Gearoid Mulligan.
There were a number of opportunities for Ulster to equalise but the Connacht defence stood strong under immense periods of pressure in the final quarter to see the game out.
Utter disappointment for Ulster having been on the front foot coming into this encounter and played exceptionally well this afternoon but Connacht performed superbly throughout the high intensity battle and will feel relieved following the heartache of losing a player and their head coach so early on.
