Staunton the hero as Young Munster celebrate one-point win

Old Belvedere 18 Young Munster 19, Anglesea Road

Not for the first time this season, Willie Staunton had a match-winning contribution for Young Munster as they edged out Old Belvedere in a thrilling finish at Anglesea Road.

Out-half Staunton showed nerves of steel to land a late drop goal and guide the third-placed Cookies to their fifth successive victory in Division 1A.

The result keeps Mike Prendergast's men in the title hunt - they sit three points behind leaders Clontarf with four rounds of matches remaining, including a home clash with 'Tarf next time out.

Despite an early penalty miss from Staunton, the visitors made the early headway and a turnover from Mike Kelliher, who is part of this year's Ireland Clubs squad, led to an unconverted opener from winger Darragh O'Neill.

Old Belvedere were starved of territory in the first quarter and they fell further behind when Staunton converted a penalty and a terrific run from prop Alan Cotter set up a try for winger Mark Doyle in the corner.

Two players with provincial experienced, Daniel Riordan and Aidan Wynne, sparked a response from 'Belvo coming up to half-time.

Riordan finished off a move in the right corner after 29 minutes and Wynne, playing at inside centre alongside John Kennedy, added a penalty to the hosts' tally before the break.

Playing with renewed confidence, Andy Dunne's side breached the Munsters' defence again five minutes into the second half. This time young out-half Stephen Crosbie nipped in under the posts after a succession of attacks.

Wynne's successful conversion made it 15-13 to the Dubliners, but Staunton restored the Cookies' advantage with a central penalty in the 50th minute.

In a tense final half-hour, Old Belvedere kept their try-line intact despite increasing pressure from the Munsters' scrum. Wynne nudged 'Belvo back in front with a penalty, but it was not enough as Staunton had the final say with a terrific 30-metre drop goal.

Scorers: Old Belvedere: Tries: Daniel Riordan, Stephen Crosbie; Con: Stephen Crosbie; Pens: Aidan Wynne 2

Young Munster: Tries: Darragh O'Neill, Mark Doyle; Pens; Willie Staunton 2; Drop: Willie Staunton

HT: Old Belvedere 8 Young Munster 13