Clermont Auvergne prove to be too strong for Connacht
Clermont thrash Connacht as they get the new rugby season up and running in France. THIERRY ZOCCOLAN/AFP/Getty Images
Connacht got the new rugby season up and running in France last night, but not in the way they would have hoped as they were thrashed 42-7 by Clermont Auvergne in Issoire.
The first of the Irish provinces into action for the new campaign trailed 35-0 at half-time against the former French champions, who will open their Top 14 campaign at home to Bernard Jackman's Grenoble next Saturday.
Coach Pat Lam selected a different starting 15 for each half, but they were outgunned by a Clermont side who were putting the finishing touches to their preparations for the coming season.
Connacht's only reprieve in a game at the end of their five-day camp in France came with a try from debutant Niyi Adeolokun, with the Trinity man's touchdown being converted by Darragh Leader.
Connacht's only other pre-season clash before they open their Guinness Pro12 campaign at home to Newport Gwent Dragons will be away to Wasps on August 23.
