Loughney has played for Connacht since 2006, having come through the province's academy. He made his debut for the side during the 2005–06 Celtic League, coming on as a replacement. Loughney made two appearances for the bench that season, with both of these also coming in the league. In the 2006–07 Celtic League, Loughney made two replacement appearances for the side, but did not start or feature in European competition. However, in November 2006, shortly after he turned 21, Loughney suffered a cruciate knee ligament injury which put him out of action for the rest of the season.