Heineken Cup date annoys Munster chiefs

THOMOND PARK officials last night expressed disappointment with the ERC decision to schedule their crucial Heineken Cup clash with Sale Sharks on Friday, January 16.

The Heineken Cup champions had pleaded with the tournament organisers and broadcaster Sky Sports to schedule their round five game on either Saturday or a Sunday due to the traffic chaos which surrounded their opening Friday night fixture against Montauban in October. Hundreds of supporters arrived late to the game while many more turned back after being caught in lengthy tailbacks.

Stadium manager John Cantwell last night admitted the 8pm scheduling is a cause of huge concern for him.