Munster eye bonus

CALCULATORS at the ready, the permutations are endless. After another pulsating weekend of European action, Munster and Leinster are finally in control of their own Heineken Cup destiny.

As anticipated, Ulster’s defeat at home by Biarritz means they have failed to make the knockout stages for the seventh season in-a-row.

Munster’s excellent victory in Castres on Friday night has ensured that the clash with Sale in Thomond Park on Saturday will dictate their future in this year’s competition. As a result of Sale’s bonus point victory over Newport Gwent Dragons yesterday, the Manchester side now have a five-point lead over Munster in Pool One. They are already guaranteed qualification.