Munster consider ferry options

MUNSTER officials confirmed last night that they’re investigating alternative routes to San Sebastian for the Heineken Cup semi-final against Biarritz in the event of planes still being grounded by the Icelandic volcano.

“We have looked at the various ferry options available to us and if the worst comes to the worst, we may have to travel by coach and sea,” spokesman Pat Geraghty said.

“Obviously, that would take a great deal longer than flying on the day prior to the game so we would have to leave earlier but, yes, it’s something we have been looking at.”

Leinster officials are monitoring the situation but are hopeful that airspace will be open ahead of their clash with Toulouse on May 1.

Spokesman Peter Breen revealed: “The important thing it that the team and supporters can get to the Heineken Cup game safely. We are keeping a close eye on it each day but hopefully things will have started to return to normal by the weekend.”

The Heineken Cup champions are away to Glasgow in the Magners League next Friday night. Should the planes continue to remain grounded, they are likely to travel by ferry from Larne to Scotland, says Breen.