Munster impressive as they control game at will
Undoubtedly, Joe Deane’s well-taken goal ten minutes into the second half had an important influence on the outcome, in the sense that it inspired Munster to raise their game. And, in another context, it was noteworthy that Damien Fitzhenry was beaten for the first time, having made a few good saves earlier on. Deane, who had got back on top after having lost an early advantage over Doc O’Connor, was one of several Munster players to do well in attack. And, both in general play and free-scoring Niall Gilligan was also hugely influential, both at centre-forward where he started and later at full-forward.
Leinster were hit by the withdrawal of the Kilkenny trio Michael Kavanagh, Derek Lyng and Henry Shefflin, as well as Brian Whelahan.
