Murphy blow for Munchins

HOLDERS St Munchins have suffered a severe blow in the build-up to tomorrow’s Munster Schools Senior Cup semi-final against Christian Brothers College at Musgrave Park with news that out-half and captain Wayne Murphy is unlikely to play.

Murphy is the sole survivor of the side that won the trophy for the third time last season and, having played a key role in the quarter-final defeat of Glenstal, it was discovered that he had broken a bone in his hand. Coach John Broderick said that they will wait until Sunday morning before making a final decision but admitted the greater likelihood was that Jeff Howard would wear the number ten shirt. Also out of the St Munchins side is first centre Eric Moloney who broke an ankle in the same game.

Even with a full-strength side, Munchins would have been underdogs against a Christians side regarded as one of the best to represent the famous Cork academy for some time. They were extremely impressive in disposing of a useful Crescent team by 34-3 in the quarter-final, a game in which scrum-half Duncan Williams rounded off a fine display with a spectacular try following a forty metre burst.

Williams and Eamonn Ronan form a very effective half-back unit and the three quarter line packs a considerable amount of pace and strength. Up front, they include no fewer than five of the Munster schools pack and the lightweight St Munchins unit will be hard pressed to hold them.