Munster keep doing it the hard way

FRUSTRATING, sloppy, tight and an uncomfortable finish — and those are the words of the winning captain.

What a Christmas conundrum Munster have given their supporters to ponder over the sherry and mince pies this festive season. Closing out, just, this fourth straight Pool One victory to leave the province sitting pretty at the top of the group with two games to play is surely a cause for celebration.

Yet the post-match analysis of Paul O’Connell, his head coach Tony McGahan and hooker Damien Varley would have made Ebenezer Scrooge’s demeanour appear like a ray of winter sunshine.