Bruised and battered front row answers the call

AN HOUR after the final whistle in Geneva yesterday, the Munster front row emerged from their dressing room, and what a sight. Marcus Horan, Frankie Sheahan, John Hayes, all looked like they’d just gone 15 rounds with a young Muhammad Ali.

For those who felt Bourgoin were only in Geneva to make up the numbers — fulfil a date and collect the cheque — here was proof positive of the opposite.

“They were clattering into rucks, into counter-rucks,” said big John. “It was hard going. They’re a top-class French team, they were here to do business, and they never gave up. We had to try and match them.”