Gavin Coombes still revels in representing Skibb on big European stages

Ahead of the latest Toulon visit, Gavin Coombes never ceases to be amazed by the levels of support Munster attract on their road trips.

REPRESENTING: The back rower never ceases to be amazed by the levels of support Munster attract on their road trips but the presence of Mum and Dad and the family’s deep connections to hometown Skibbereen Rugby Club add another level of motivation for the 28-year-old. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

There are plenty of reasons for Munster players and supporters to look back fondly on their most recent visit to Toulon in 2024, not least the come-from-behind 29-18 Champions Cup pool victory.

A repeat of that bonus-point win two years on their return to Stade Felix Mayol would go down very nicely with charter flights set to depart Shannon and Cork on Saturday ahead of Sunday’s early afternoon kick-off. Memories of 24 months ago alone could possibly fuel their take-off but for Gavin Coombes it was the presence of parents Eric and Regina in the stands for their first European away game that topped his recollections of that famous day this week.