Rugby Union: Edinburgh Ends Connacht’s Winning Streak

Ben Healy’s last-minute drop goal secured a thrilling victory for Edinburgh, putting an end to Connacht’s undefeated start in the United Rugby Championship.

Game Overview

Edinburgh started the game with determination, aiming to bounce back from their disappointing loss against Leinster. They quickly took control of the match with early tries from Wes Goosen and Ben Vellacott.

However, Connacht fought back through Tiernan O’Halloran and Joe Joyce, leveling the scores at 17-17 with just two minutes remaining on the clock. But it was Ben Healy who emerged as the hero of the day, delivering a precise drop goal that sealed victory for Edinburgh.

The Key Moments

1. A Solid Start: Charlie Shiel and Mark Bennett combined brilliantly before releasing winger Wes Goosen for a try in the corner. Ben Healy successfully converted from a difficult angle.
2. A Quick Response: After Blair Kinghorn’s kick was charged down, Javan Sebastian picked up the ball in an offside position. Jack Carty capitalized on this opportunity and kicked a penalty to reduce the deficit.
3. Edinburgh Extends Their Lead: Duhan van der Merwe showcased his brilliance as he powered through defenders before setting up Ben Vellacott for a try near the posts. Healy converted with ease.
4. A Resilient Connacht Fightback: Connacht refused to back down, and Tiernan O’Halloran crashed over the try line after a well-executed maul. Pierre Schoeman’s sin binning further boosted their chances.

The Final Showdown

The match seemed destined for a draw when Joe Joyce scored late in the game, leveling the score at 24-24 with just two minutes remaining. However, Edinburgh had other plans. They launched one final attack and were rewarded with a penalty that Ben Healy skillfully converted into a drop goal to secure victory.

Lineups

Edinburgh:

Kinghorn, Goosen, Bennett, Lang, Van der Merwe, Healy, Shiel; Schoeman, Ashman, Sebastian Young, Gilchrist Dodd Boyle Mata. Replacements: Cherry Venter Williams Sykes Muncaster Vellacott Dean McCann.

Connacht:

O’Halloran Porch Ralston Daly Smith Carty Blade Dooley McElroy Aungier N.Murray D.Murray Prendergast Oliver O’Brien. Replacements: Tierney-Martin, Duggan Illo Joyce Butler C. Reilly Hawkshaw Hanrahan.

Conclusion

Edinburgh’s thrilling victory over Connacht marks the end of their unbeaten run in the United Rugby Championship. Ben Healy’s last-minute drop goal proved to be the decisive moment that secured a memorable win for Edinburgh at Hive Stadium.