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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Michael Scully

Connacht ring the changes as Eoghan Masterson among those leaving the Sportsground

Connacht back row Eoghan Masterson is among a group of 12 players who won't be at the province next season.

Portlaoise man Masterson, 29, has played 118 times for the westerners over nine years but is leaving at the end of the current campaign.

It was already known that Ultan Dillane, Sammy Arnold, Abraham Papali'i and Tietie will play in France next season, while winger Matt Healy had already announced his retirement from the pro game.

Connacht have now confirmed that experienced centre Peter Robb - another veteran of the province's 2016 PRO12 final triumph - as well as Greg McGrath, Jonny Murphy, Ben O'Donnell, Dominic Robertson-McCoy and Peter Sullivan are also leaving.

"I’d like to thank all the players who have each contributed to Connacht Rugby in their own way," said the province's head coach Andy Friend.

"Comings and goings are part and parcel of professional rugby and I wish them every success in the future.

"As is tradition we will thank them in front of our supporters at the end of our final game of the season against Zebre."

Connacht have confirmed a 44-man squad for next season, including the four players signed by Leinster - Josh Murphy, Peter Dooley, Adam Byrne and David Hawkshaw.

Full-back Tiernan O'Halloran has signed a one-year contract extension.

"Everyone knows what this club means to me so I’m really pleased to be able to enter my 14th season here," said O'Halloran.

"It’s been incredible to see the changes and the way the club has grown in that time, and I’m very fortunate to have played my part in that.

"I’m thankful to Connacht Rugby for giving me the opportunity to continue playing my rugby here and I’m excited by what we can achieve next season."

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