Punters back Reds for 2009

MUNSTER have been installed as favourites to retain their Heineken Cup title next May with thousands of euro placed on Paul O’Connell’s side since Saturday’s victory over French giants, Toulouse.

Bookmaking firm Boylesports received over €10,000 on the province with bets rolling in after Nigel Owens blew the final whistle.

Spokesman Leon Blanche explained: “Boylesports are going 5/1 on Munster retaining the title. The calls started coming in after the game finished and we expect a good few more calls in the coming days.”