Elwood rues missed opportunity

Connacht trailed Gloucester 11-7 at half-time in Galway after Gavin Duffy pounced for a try following two Gloucester penalties from Freddie Burns and a James Simpson-Daniel try.

The hosts had the advantage of a strong wind in their favour in the second-half and quickly reduced the deficit to a single point thanks to the boot of Niall O'Connor.

But they were unable to get the breakthrough they sought after and instead settle for a losing bonus-point and remain bottom of Pool Six.

"It's difficult because that was a game we felt we had a huge opportunity to get our first win in the Heineken Cup," said Elwood.

"We know we can mix it with quality opposition but are frustrated with our performance. That was a huge opportunity missed.

"When we got within one point we should have pushed on, because we had a bit of momentum, and that is what is disappointing.

"I don't think Gloucester were at their best, but they did enough to win the game, and I wouldn't mind just doing enough to win a game.

"We were both desperate for the win, but I believe that ourselves, as the home team, should have taken the initiative to push on and really go for the jugular."

Connacht face Gloucester again on Saturday, at Kingsholm, and Elwood has urged his side to respond. But the Irish province could be without Ray Ofisa who limped off with a knee injury.

"This could kick-start Gloucester's season but we have an opportunity next week to bounce back," added Elwood.