Filippo Cristiano is sent to the bin after a string of penalties against the visitors. Connacht opt for the scrum just 5 out from the line.

Final warning issued to the Zebre penalties, next time could see a sin-binning.

Jason Harris-Wright was down receiving treatment for a few minutes and just it looked like he would have to be replaced, the hooker rose back to his feet, greeted to a roar from the crowd.

Two sides exchange penalties, David Odiete leveled things momentarily before Porter regained the lead for Connacht. 6-3 they lead.

Penalty Connacht! Third time lucky for Porter, much easier kick, after the two difficult ones he had missed, and he makes no mistake. Zebre's early ill-discipline will worry them. 3-0.

Another chance for Porter, this time from halfway but he once again see's his effort drift wide.

First chance of the game presented itself to Connacht and while scrum-half Ian Porter had the distance, he lacked accuracy and so the score remains 0-0.

A stop-start opening few minutes to the game, a few minor injuries and a number of knock-ons means we have not had a free flowing start to the game.

Game is underway with Connacht kicking off!

A massive feature of tonight's game is the Connacht debut of 100 times capped All-Black Mils Muliaina. His introduction to the Connacht team has been delayed due to injury but the home crowd will be delighted to see the New Zealand legend in action.