Connacht coach Michael Bradley has named his panel of 22 for what will be his only away fixture in seven at the start of the Magners League.

Bradley was forced to plan without Ireland A prop Ray Hogan as well as Ronan Loughney, David McGowan, Joe Merrigan and Ted Robinson for Friday evening's game against Border Reivers at Netherdale.

Connacht have impressed in pre-season, running in 12 tries in games against Rotherham Titans and Narbonne.

After the weekend the will host six massive games at the Sportsground with the first coming on September 8th against Ospreys.

Llanelli Scarlets, Edinburgh Gunners, Leinster, Ulster, and Newport Gwent Dragons are then on the cards for Bradley's side as they aim to make the most of early home advantage.

Leinster Rugby meanwhile is mourning the death of former Leinster Schools captain Brian McLoughlin who died this morning after a long illness.

McLoughlin also captained Blackrock College to their 50th Senior Cup title success in 1964 and worked with the IRB and ERC in a disciplinary capacity, attending the 2003 Rugby World Cup as a disciplinary officer.

Speaking today, Leinster Chief Executive Michael Dawson said: "Brian was a man of great humour and was someone who readily gave his time freely for the game of rugby.

"He was hugely respected both in Leinster and across the country and his passing will leave a massive void for his family and many friends. Our thoughts are with his wife Vonnie and children at this difficult time."

Connacht: J Fogarty, M Diffley, S Knoop, B Wilkinson, A Flavin, A Farley, M Swift, D Gannon, B O'Connor, C Rigney, J Muldoon, M Lacey, P Warwick, M McHugh, T Tierney, C Keane, C McPhillips, D Riordan, M Mostyn, G Williams, D Yapp, K Matthews.