The cracks are starting to show

OVER the past few seasons we have enjoyed a diet of at least one Irish side in the knockout stages of the Heineken Cup.

Invariably that team has been Munster, at times augmented by Leinster in the quarter and semi-finals.

For all kinds of reasons, this season is one that will test the resources for Irish rugby to the full. On the evidence of the first half of the season, that concern is justified.