Connacht survived a late rally to see off the Cell C Sharks 24-12 at the Sportsground in the URC this evening.

It was another day to forget for Ulster as their poor run of form continued in Italy, losing by 31 points to 29 to Benetton.

Meanwhile, Leinster and holders Munster have both registered bonus-point wins on the opening day of the women's inter-pros.

Jenny Murphy grabbed a pair of tries in Leinster's 38-10 victory against Connacht at Energia Park.

While Aoife Doyle and Deirbhile Nic A Bhaird scored two ties each for Munster as they eased to a 34-nil win against Ulster in Cork.