Bid to float Munster on Red Sea of fans

MUNSTER’S red-hot rugby heroes are to get a colourful send-off for the May 20 Heineken Cup final.

The official supporters’ club wants to paint the province red.

Red-blooded fans are being urged to show their true colours. John Rochfort, who heads the Munster Rugby Supporters’ Club, said: “We want to turn the province red.”

Saturday week’s decider against fancied French side Biarritz could be the long-awaited red-letter day for rugby-mad Munster fans.

To kickstart what should be a great weekend of celebrations, Friday May 19, is to be designated Munster Red Day.

Mr Rochford revealed: “We are hoping that as many businesses and schools in Munster will get behind the team by turning out in a sea of red.”

All factories, shops, offices and schools are being asked to participate in the initiative by encouraging employees and pupils to wear the Munster colours to work or school.

Mr Rochford said: “Some of the largest employers throughout the province have already committed to showing their support for the Munster team by allowing employees to wear jerseys and red clothing instead of normal work attire. We aim is to turn the province red for the weekend and by hosting Munster Red Day, we plan to start the build-up to the final as early as possible.”

He added: “Munster Red Day will give the team a further boost on their way to the final and gives everyone a great opportunity to row in behind the team.

“Red will be the most unifying colour in sport that weekend.”