Rowntree proud but irked at Munster giving away 'presents'

Graham Rowntree and Tadhg Beirne wouldn't use illness in the camp as an excuse for Champions Cup defeat.

Munster head coach Graham Rowntree before the Investec Champions Cup Round of 16 match between Northampton Saints and Munster at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton, England. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Graham Rowntree was left both proud and frustrated as Munster exited the Champions League on Sunday at Franklin’s Gardens, undone by a strong final quarter by English Premiership leaders Northampton Saints.

Two tries in the last 20 minutes from replacement outside back George Hendy were the difference in a game that was tied 14-14 after the first hour and a scoreless third quarter.