Once more, Munster’s doubters circle

WITH SO much negativity surrounding rugby at the moment, with the plethora of law changes that favour the team without the ball (and the kickfest that has ensued), how refreshing to see so much positive rugby produced by a whole host of teams in last weekend’s Heineken Cup.

In the 12 games played, a total of 56 tries were scored, an average of 4.7 per game. Of the 24 participating teams only Munster, Toulouse, Cardiff Blues and Brive failed to register a five pointer.

Watching Munster’s pool rivals of the last two seasons, Clermont Auvergne, perform with such polish and adventure in a 70 point classic against the Leicester Tigers in the Stade Marcel Michelin, offered a timely reminder of what Munster can expect next Sunday. Playing at home breeds an entirely different mindset for all French teams.