Munster ‘A’ changes for Neath test

MUNSTER ‘A’ play what will perhaps be the defining game in their Pool B British & Irish Cup when they take on Neath at The Gnoll tomorrow.

Although retaining the core of the side that defeated Nottingham in Waterford last time out, this Munster side shows several changes, with the pack being beefed up by the inclusion of Nick Williams at number eight. Duncan Williams and Scott Deasy are included in the backline this time, Deasy teaming up with Tom Gleeson in the centre, while Jeremy Manning returns from injury to take his place on the bench.

It says it all about the competitiveness of this Pool that despite three straight wins Munster still have a lot to do if they’re to make the semis.

The Anthony Foley-Ian Costello coached side, unbeaten to date this season, take on a Neath side who, although languishing in 5th place in the table could still qualify for the knockouts if they beat Munster and others results went their way.

Bristol (at home to Heriots) in second place, trail Munster (13) by four points but can be expected to reap a full dividend and end the weekend with 14 points going into the final round of matches.

Third-placed Nottingham could also win with a bonus leaving them on 13 so at least Munster know exactly what they have to do in Wales.

MUNSTER A (v Neath, tomorrow): D Riordan; D Barnes, T Gleeson, S Deasy, C O’Boyle; D Cusack, D Williams; D Kilcoyne, S Henry, S Archer; D Foley, I Nagle; S Hassett, P O’Mahony (capt), N Williams.

Replacements: G Slattery, P O’Regan, N Melbourne, E Kelly, C Murray, J Manning, R O’Mahony.