CJ Stander: Home semi-final now a priority for Munster rugby

CJ Stander will leave the personal plaudits on one side in the run-in to the Guinness Pro12 play-offs as Munster target not just a top-four finish but a home semi-final.

With four games to play in the regular season, Munster are sitting relatively comfortably in the top four, trailing leaders Glasgow by two points and second-placed Ulster only on points difference after a six-try thumping of Connacht at Thomond Park last Saturday evening.

Stander, 25 this Sunday, contributed heartily to the 42-20 victory over the westerners, adding another Pro12 man of the match medal - “I’ve five of them now!” - to his creaking mantelpiece with a powerhouse performance on both sides of the ball.