Howlett: We need to dig deep

Munster captain Doug Howlett admits his side will have to dig deep into their mental reserves to rebound from a desperate loss to Cardiff Blues and build momentum for this Sunday’s must-win Heineken Cup game at Edinburgh.

Munster’s season hangs in the balance heading to Murrayfield with the two-time European champions needing one and preferably two bonus-point wins from their final Pool 1 games at Edinburgh and when Racing Metro go to Thomond Park seven days later if they are to have a chance of reaching the quarter-finals.

Last Saturday’s 17-6 home defeat by the Blues at Musgrave Park was hardly the best way to face into that task, particularly given the dismal nature of the performance and Howlett agreed this week’s preparations will be characterised by the time-honoured Munster tradition of going to the well in its darkest hour, with each player summoning all his efforts and pouring them into the provincial cause. That can often mean a edgy week’s training but, the former All Black said, needs must.