Payne puts positive spin as Dragons loom large

THE waiting game is always the worst and Denis Hurley is hoping against hope that a scan on an injured right knee will provide good news today.

But as Munster sweat on the long-term availability of the in-form Hurley, there is more positive news in advance of Saturday’s Magners League clash with Newport Gwent Dragons at Musgrave Park (7.30pm).

Declan Kidney has released Peter Stringer and Denis Leamy from the national squad to allow them participate in a match against opposition that could hardly be described a shrinking violets. One of Munster’s three losses in this campaign was against the Dragons in Rodney Parade, and it was the most conclusive defeat of the lot (20-6).