Flannery found inspiration in Munster adversity

JERRY FLANNERY admits one of his lowest points in 2009 may have been the key to Ireland’s unbeaten run through the autumn series.

In early May, Flannery and his Munster colleagues were pummelled by Leinster in a Heineken Cup semi-final at Croke Park en route to their European title win in Murrayfield. Flannery believes that the success of Michael Cheika’s side had a huge part to play in the national squad’s mindset these past few weeks.

“For the Irish team to prosper, the provincial teams have to do well.