Scrum-loving Cullie Tucker has helped transform Connacht set-piece

Whenever the Connacht forwards have been asked about their improved scrum this season, they direct the plaudits towards Cullie Tucker.

The Limerick native changed roles during the close season, switching from defence to become Connacht's scrum and contact coach, and he has made an immediate effect.

Connacht boast the third-best scrum in the BKT United Rugby Championship, with a 96% win rate on their own put-in, while they are also third in the charts for turnovers won.

"I was raised around the scrum and contact area," Tucker told RTÉ Sport. "Scrum would be one of my favourite areas of the game.

"Some people like to watch people running up the wing, I like to watch scrummaging.

"I'm really enjoying it, the buy-in from the guys has been brilliant, and it has been great from the coaches to give me the time every week to work with the props, hookers and all the pack.

"I'm loving it so far. We didn’t start great against Ulster but since then we’ve built fairly well.

"You’re one performance from a tough day as well, which can happen. I’m only facilitating a group of players who love it themselves.

"I make sure the props have their work done every Tuesday morning when we analyse the opposition. They’re bringing a lot to the table themselves and hopefully my own passion and love for the area is rubbing off on them as well.

"We’re making sure the back five know their importance as well in terms of adding all their weight, getting across the line and squeezing their joints.

"It has been a brilliant process so far. There’s going to be ups and downs with it no doubt, but I’m pleased with the buy-in."

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