Local players set to feature for Connacht in opening interpro fixture

Rosemount's Emma Kelly is one of a number of local players named in the Connacht Rugby women's team for Saturday evening's Vodafone Interprovincial Championship game against Ulster at the Affidea Stadium, kick-off, 4.15pm.

The former Moate Community School student, who has represented Ireland in the rugby league code, has been named to start as flanker, in what will be her first start for the province.

Speaking to the Westmeath Independent following her selection, Kelly said she was "extremely grateful" to be selected for the opening interprovincial championship game.

"I am really looking forward to representing Connacht on Saturday. We are aware of the threat Ulster will provide but we also know our capabilities with and without the ball.

"We have put in a lot of hard work to this point so to finally be at game week after a tough pre-season makes it all come to life," the former Leinster player said.

Kelly is joined in the starting team by Moydrum's Anna McGann, who will play in her customary wing role, while team captain, Aoibheann Reilly, from Creagh, has been named to start in the scrum-half position.

Athlone native Faith Oviawe will start in the second row, while Roscommon's Jemima Adams Verling will fill the number 8 role.

Following Saturday evening's contest against Ulster, a trip to Dublin to face Leinster awaits, before Connacht host their sole home game in the group stage against Munster at Dexcom Stadium on Saturday, August 22.

The Dexcom Stadium will also host the interprovincial championships play-off finals for the first time on the weekend of Friday, August 28.

Commenting on his team selection, head coach, Craig Hansberry said his charges will be "tough to beat".

“We’re fortunate to be able to select a squad full of talent, with a nice mix of Irish internationals, established members of the squad from previous years, and some exciting young players coming through the ranks, all of whom are immensely proud to represent Connacht every day in training.

"Starting the campaign away from home is always a challenge, especially against an Ulster side who’ll be really targeting this game. We’re confident in our abilities and if we play to the level I know we’re capable of, we’ll be tough to beat," Hansberry said.