Connacht End Six-Game Losing Streak with Win over Zebre in Italy

Connacht concluded their 2024-25 United Rugby Championship season with a 22-12 victory over Zebre in Parma, ending a five-game losing streak and securing their first win in six URC matches. The Irish province finished 13th in the table, nine points shy of qualification places, with just six wins from 18 games. Captain Cian Prendergast and wing Shayne Bolton scored first-half tries, with Prendergast's individual effort from 40 meters and Bolton's right-corner try giving Connacht a 12-7 halftime lead. Shamus Hurley-Langton added a second-half try, while out-half JJ Hanrahan contributed seven points through conversions and a late penalty to seal the win. Despite dominance in possession and scrums, Connacht faced pressure after a yellow card to replacement scrum-half Matthew Devine and a Zebre try from fullback Jacopo Trulla. The victory provides a positive note for Connacht as they prepare for a summer reset, including coaching appointments, after a disappointing season overall.