Ian Keatley defies the critics to revive passionate Munster

Ulster 7 Munster 9: The often-criticised Ian Keatley emerged as Munster’s hero as the province halted their worst losing streak for a decade in sneaking a deserved Pro12 victory over Ulster in their own back yard.

Keatley landed a penalty in each half and also swept over a superbly executed drop goal in the 58th minute to propel Munster back up the Guinness Pro12 table. and deliver a timely boost going into three successive European games.

Keatley directed operations as Munster played with verve, passion and composure with their defence tackling to a virtual standstill. Keatley kept the ball in front of his marauding pack for most of the game with delicate kicks, and such was Munster’s in-your-face approach, Ulster neither had the accuracy or commitment to get into any sort of rhythm.