News article – Style E 4916

Gary Connolly on the attack at the Sportsground

Former rugby league star Gary Connolly had little soul searching to do when approached by Munster to sign ahead of last week’s Heineken Cup registration deadline.

The ex-Wigan and St Helen’s league merchant penned a four-month contract for the province last week, and having arrived in Limerick only 24 hours earlier, made a lightning start to his career in red by scoring two debut tries against Connacht on Saturday.

Connolly started at outside centre and struck up a strong midfield partnership throughout with former Springbok Trevor Halstead. Having played his first union game for three years, Connolly knows, however, that tougher days lay ahead and refused the plaudits afterwards.

“It’s always great to score tries, but full credit to the team for a very good, positive performance,” said the 34-year-old.

Connolly, who could yet play a pivotal role during Munster’s European campaign, added: “As soon as they (Munster) spoke to me I knew I wanted to come over here – you don’t turn down the chance to play for a team like Munster.

“I’m happy with the short term and conscious that I need to prove myself in this code and at this level.”