Glasgow Warriors secure semi-final spot with victory over Connacht

Captain Kyle Steyn led by example with two tries and a Player of the Match performance, while Patrick Schickerling, Josh McKay and Jare Oguntibeju also crossed as Franco Smith’s side advanced to the final four.

Connacht struck first when captain Cian Prendergast powered over from close range, with Sam Gilbert adding the conversion to give the visitors an early 7-0 lead.

Glasgow responded through Schickerling after sustained pressure inside the Connacht 22. George Horne converted from a difficult angle to level the scores after an entertaining opening quarter.

The hosts continued to build momentum and were rewarded when Connacht prop Sam Illo was shown a yellow card following repeated infringements. Despite opportunities at both ends, the sides remained locked at 7-7 at the interval.

Glasgow made the perfect start to the second half. A pinpoint 50-22 from Steyn put the Warriors deep into Connacht territory before slick handling created space for the skipper to finish in the corner. Horne’s conversion edged Glasgow ahead.

The Warriors then extended their advantage with one of the tries of the evening. Dan Lancaster’s floated pass released McKay, who raced clear to score untouched and make it 21-7.

Connacht responded through hooker Dave Heffernan to reduce the deficit, but Glasgow quickly restored control. With Alex Samuel temporarily in the sin-bin, Oguntibeju capitalised on a loose ball around the breakdown, bursting clear from 22 metres to score a crucial try. Horne converted to open up a 14-point cushion.

Finlay Bealham gave Connacht hope with a late score, but Steyn had the final say. The Glasgow captain gathered Lancaster’s long pass to cross in the corner and seal victory in front of a packed Scotstoun crowd.

The result sends Glasgow Warriors into the URC semi-finals, where they will now prepare for a showdown at Scottish Gas Murrayfield as they continue their pursuit of silverware.

MATCH TICKET ON SALE TIMELINE

• Friday 29 May, 10pm – Sunday 31 May, 10am: Glasgow Warriors Season Ticket Holder and Warrior Nation Pre-Sale
• Saturday 30 May, 10am – Sunday 31 May, 10am: Scotland Season Pass Holders and Supporters Club Members Pre-Sale
• Sunday 31 May, 10am: General sale

Match tickets start at £15 (adults), £8.50 (U18s) and £5.50 (U12s) and there’s family package (two adults and two U18s) for £50. All prices are inclusive of booking fee.

HOSPITALITY

Hospitality packages are now available to purchase online via The Murrayfield Experience in the following suites at Scottish Gas Murrayfield:

• Cameron House Business Club (The Club House) priced at £110
• Harper Macleod Club Deck (President’s Suite) priced at £220
• The Flying Scot priced at £350

Click here for full details.