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Rhys Patchell praised Cardiff Blues' composure after his last-gasp conversion helped seal a thrilling 18-17 win against Connacht in the Pro12.

The Blues trailed the Irish province 17-11 deep into added time before Joaquin Tuculet scored to set up Patchell's kick.

The Wales international, 21, held his nerve and hailed his team-mates' coolness under pressure.

"It was great composure from the boys," he said.

"We didn't get anything we wanted on the field in the first half and we were absolutely awful.

"There were a few stern words at half-time and it was great composure from the boys to keep going, to not panic."

It was not until the 65th minute that the Blues took the lead for the first time in the game, as Patchell's penalty nudged them 11-10 in front.

Connacht seemed to have snatched victory when Aly Muldowney barged over with 10 minutes left.

But after a concerted period of possession and pressure which lasted several phases, Tuculet crossed for his and the Blues' second try.

"I'm just grateful Tucs [Tuculet] got a little bit closer to the posts to make the conversion a bit easier," said Patchell, who was playing at full-back.

"It's pleasing to knock over the winning kick but the important thing is that we have come away from this as a team with a victory.

"Nothing was good enough other than a victory."

The win over Connacht was the Blues' second in succession in the Pro12 under caretaker coaches Dale McIntosh and Paul John.

Like the previous victory over Edinburgh, Patchell said this was another triumph of will power and patience.

"We dogged it out last week against Edinburgh, and we've done it again," he added.

"I think Chief [McIntosh] and Johnsy [John] would be happier if we were a bit prettier and didn't leave it until the last minute, but a win's a win."