Galwey hints time has come for Munster to conquer Europe

Barry Coughlan

Galwey was enlisted to help Munster through several games in the competition and in the Celtic League this season, both in an unofficial assistant managerial capacity and as an occasional advisor to Alan Gaffney.

Just back from a week-long family break in Bermuda, Galwey is as enthusiastic as ever about Munster’s prospects of lifting the big European prize. And, if it happens, he won’t be the slightest bit aggrieved, won’t shed a tear if others get the glory he craved for over so many arduous seasons.

“It’s nothing to do with me. My time has come and gone but I will be there willing them to win for Munster and Irish rugby. I desperately want them to win because I believe they deserve it. Munster have, arguably, been the most consistent side in Europe over a number of seasons.

In fact, Galwey hinted this could be the year, although he warned of the “huge” danger posed by Stade Francais for starters.

“People talk about the Thomond Park factor, about the fact that Munster haven’t lost a European game there. But records are made to tumble. Somehow, I doubt if Munster will fall into the trap of believing they only have to turn up to win.

“This is a huge challenge against a very accomplished side, a club that will play as a team as well as being capable of individual brilliance. I know the mindset of the Munster players and I am convinced that they won’t be fooled into thinking it will be easy.

When Galwey talks about Munster, there is passion in the voice but he believes passion alone won’t win a place in the semi-finals.

“Undoubtedly, this Munster team is very passionate, but the team is packed with skillful players who have proved themselves for the province and for Ireland.”

He was not surprised by Munster’s ability to qualify for the knock-out stages again, despite the loss of experienced players such as himself, John Langford, Peter Clohessy and Keith Wood over the last couple of seasons.

“I think Munster adapted a very pragmatic approach and brought in players at timely intervals to fill the gaps that would inevitably show up after a time.”

Indeed, Galwey believes Munster have “bought” in the best over the last few years.

“I think the first overseas player was Rhys Ellison and he was simply a fantastic guy who made a huge contribution and also brought out the best of young lads around him.

“Then we had John Langford, Jim Williams and now Christian Cullen.`

“A few years ago, players like Ronan O’Gara and Peter Stringer were knocking on the door for international recognition. Now they’re both approaching the 50 cap mark. You can’t buy experience like that.”

Despite the challenge on Saturday, with Galwey noting Stade Francais’ power up front and unpredictability behind the scrum, the Thomond Park factor should prevail.

“I realise, in some ways, it adds to the pressure for the players. But these guys have gone into cauldrons abroad. They have lived with pressure and coped with it. But Munster are

mentally strong enough and good enough on the pitch to prove that they are capable of beating anyone.”