AJ MacGinty's return from injury couldn't have been timed more perfectly.

The former Connacht star flyhalf put on a near flawless performance against his former team to advance the Sale Sharks to the Heineken Challenge Cup Semifinal.

Watch MacGinty's masterclass performance on-demand here!

MacGinty was directly responsible for all of his team's points. He spotted the opposition weaknesses and assisted both tries for Sale. MacGinty had no trouble converting both kicks from the touchline and added two penalty goals for 10 total points.

Dublin Defense

The Irish-born Eagle is not the most imposing player on the pitch, but MacGinty was a sure tackler against Connacht. Positionally, MacGinty forced a lot of defenders elsewhere, but when they were committed he put his licks in or held on for a ride.

MacGinty logged 12 tackles in the game, second among all players. But that's not all ...

 With Sale down a man, MacGinty somehow slid from out of nowhere to force the certain try scorer into touch. This play just about sealed the match in the second half, as Connacht's momentum was sapped.

Besides one knock-on, AJ MacGinty was flawless at flyhalf. Whether it was attack, defense, kicking for posts, or kicking for touch; MacGinty had it all covered. Good news for Sale fans, and good news for USA fans, too.