Rowntree not panicking as Round of 16 clash with Northampton confirmed

Munster boss Rowntree is now facing the break up of his squad for two months as his Irish internationals head away to the Six Nations, the head coach reflected on his side failing to get over the line from winning positions in four of their last five games.

ON THE ROAD: Munster will face Northampton Saints in Franklin's Garden in their Champions Cup Round of 16 fixture. Pic:  ©INPHO/Billy Stickland

Graham Rowntree refused to press the panic button following Munster’s latest final-quarter collapse and a Thomond Park defeat to Northampton Saints which will send them back on the road for a Champions Cup Round of 16 rematch at Franklin’s Gardens.

Munster surrendered a 20-10 third-quarter lead on Saturday night and let slip their grip on their final-round Pool 3 clash with the unbeaten leaders, who had been reduced to 14 men at the end of the opening half when hooker Curtis Langdon was sent off.