Johann van Graan: Clermont win can propel Munster forward

The province trailed their French hosts by 19 points at one stage but bounced back to win by eight and they follow that remarkable success up now by welcoming Leinster to Limerick on St Stephen's Day

Munster's CJ Stander scores a try in the remarkable comeback win against Clermont at the weekend. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo

Johann van Graan believes Munster's incredible comeback win away to Clermont Auvergne can take the province to a new level. The two-time European champions looked down and out at the Stade Marcel Michelin at the weekend but recovered from a 28-9 deficit to claim a shock Champions Cup win at a venue renowned as one of the toughest in world rugby.

It was a landmark achievement for a side that has bumped its head against a glass ceiling in the last decade in losing big games to the likes of Leinster, Saracens and Racing 92. The Munster coach also believes it was a victory for the stability at the club in recent years.