Finn: Munster will give Kidney fitting farewell

Former Munster and Ireland international Moss Finn says Munster will be inspired by Declan Kidney to lift the Heineken Cup on Saturday.

Finn expects Munster to triumph to give Anthony Foley, Jim Williams and, in particular, Declan Kidney a fitting farewell.

“Declan Kidney has had a profound effect on Munster and that could be the key ingredient on Saturday.

“Declan has been phenomenal for Munster over the years and I would worry a small bit about Munster missing his influence in the season’s ahead,” said Finn.

Munster must, however, win the forward exchanges in order to secure quality ball for Ronan O’Gara, and in this area Paul O’Connell will be the major player according to Finn.

“O’Connell is truly the talisman for the pack,” said Finn.

“He is the first fella to go in and make a hit, make a carry and leads from the front.

"But in Albacete, Toulouse have their own Paul O’Connell, and the Argentinean cleaned Paul out in the World Cup.

“That is a concern because irrespective of how good a player you are, there are certain fellas who can have the indian sign over you and if Albacete dominates Paul then Munster could find themselves in trouble,” added Finn.

Meanwhile, Super 14 coach with the Waratahs Ewen McKenzie is reportedly considering an offer from the IRFU and Munster to come to Ireland.

The Australian is set to reject an approach from Stade Francais and is being linked with the Munster job and as assistant to Declan Kidney with Ireland.

He will, however, face stiff opposition from Munster’s current defensive coach Tony McGahan

McGahan has been the key member of Kidney’s backroom staff for the last two seasons and is highly regarded by the players.

He has expressed his interest in the top position and it will be difficult for the Branch to look beyond him.

Listen to the Irish Examiner 2008 Heineken Cup Final podcast here: www.irishexaminer.com/rugby/podcast/

Article courtesy of The Evening Echo