Connacht's Smith hopes Bears win can be 'turning point'

Connacht wing Andrew Smith says their Champions Cup win over Bristol can be a "turning point" for the team.

Pete Wilkins' side are likely to continue their European adventure in the Challenge Cup with Saracens expected to leapfrog Connacht tomorrow after they host Lyon.

But after losing their opening three matches and dropping into ninth in the URC, the 27-10 Pool 1 win is a timely boost ahead of the Six Nations break.

"It's been a long start to the season and that was a big game for us," said player of the match Smith.

"It was a big turning point and we’re delighted to get the job done and keep our European dreams alive so it’s really good.

"It means a lot. I’m delighted to get a few appearances this season and finally put in a performance. Happy days."

Smith grabbed the hosts’ fourth try after being denied a try of the season contender moments before.

"I thought [it was good] but it doesn’t matter as I got the second one," said the 23-year-old, who is in his first season at the club having spent time in the Sevens programme.

Meanwhile, Bristol boss Pat Lam [above] had no complaints about the result.

"They did [play well]. We knew you’ve got to be at your best and the boys knew that," said the former Connacht head coach.

"It’s a hard place to win but make it even harder if you don’t play your best. We coughed up too much ball and Connacht put us under pressure. Huge congratulations to Connacht.

"I was more disappointed, we are all disappointed. You give Connacht opportunities you don’t take your opportunities, you pay the price. It was a good night for the west of Ireland."

On the red card for Josh Caulfield, he said: "It was a complete accident. I just saw Finlay, thankfully he’s all good. It was 100% an accident.

"It does [make it