Connacht started off proceedings with an 18-12 win over Newport in the Sportsground. They led 8-6 at half time thanks to a marvellous try from debutant James Norton and a penalty from Eric Elwood. In the second half Wayne Munn scored a try and Elwood added the remainder of the points. All Newport's scores came from the boot of Shane Howarth.

At a packed Musgrave Park, the Jim Williams inspired home side earned a bonus point thanks to a 38-27 win over Swansea. After a superb first half performance, Munster led 19-3, their try coming from Mossie Lawlor with Jeremy Staunton kicking the rest of the points. Dominic Crotty scored two second half tries and Mike Prendergast scored their fourth to earn the bonus point.

In Ravenhill, Ulster got their challenge for a place in the knock-out stages back on track with a gutsy 17-13 win over Neath.