Connacht secure bonus-point win over Zebre
Connacht beat Zebre 48-27 at Dexcom Stadium, returning to winning ways in the United Rugby Championship with an eight-try performance. The victory moves Connacht up to sixth, while Zebre remain bottom after earning their first league point of the season.
Connacht led 33-17 at half-time after scoring five tries, with Finlay Bealham, Sean Jansen, Cathal Forde and Sam Gilbert among the scorers. Zebre secured a try bonus point with their fourth try, but Dave Heffernan scored twice for Connacht, including a late try from a close-range maul; the home side had also beaten Saracens in the Champions Cup the previous weekend.
In short
- Connacht beat Zebre 48-27.
- Connacht scored eight tries.
- Zebre earned their first point of the season.
Explained simply
Connacht and Zebre are professional rugby union teams who play in the United Rugby Championship, a competition featuring clubs from Ireland, Italy, Scotland, South Africa and Wales. Connacht represent the western province of Ireland and play their home matches in Galway; Zebre are based in Parma and represent Italy.
League points are awarded for wins and draws, with extra bonus points available for scoring four or more tries or losing by seven points or fewer. These points shape the table over the season, while the sides also compete in European tournaments such as the Champions Cup.