Connacht end losing streak after edging out Munster 20-16

Connacht 20 - 16 Munster, Galway

Andrew Conway's red card proved costly for Munster as they were edged out by Connacht 20-16 in their Pro 14 clash in Galway on Friday.

Simon Zebo brushed away the disappointment of him not being selected in the Ireland squad for the autumn internationals with an early try in the third minute while fly-half Ian Keatley slotted a conversion and a penalty to take Munster to a 10-0 lead.

Connacht did narrow down the gap with fullback Tiernan O'Halloran going past the line in the 22nd minute and Jack Carty slotted the extras. Even though Keatley kicked his second penalty in the 30th minute, his efforts were negated by Carty. Munster ended the first half with a slender 10-13 lead.

Carty helped Connacht level the scores with his second penalty after the restart but once again Munster reclaimed a three point lead with replacement JJ Hanrahan slotting his first penalty in the game in the 65th minute. The penalty came after Conway was sent-off after replays showed he had caught Carty when the fly-half attempted a chip and charge.

Having an extra man, Andy Farrell hared on to a pass and split open the Munster midfield for his try in the 66th minute and was converted by Craig Ronaldson as Connacht completed a thrilling four point victory.

The win has also put an end to Connacht's four straight defeat in the season as they move to fourth in Conference A which also has Munster at second.