FOLOWING the exciting end of the 2011 RBS 6 Nations, focus once again returns to the Magners League with the Round 18 matches taking place this weekend. On Friday night, Munster take on the Cardiff Blues in what promises to be a great encounter.
With just five full rounds left until the end of the regular season, pressure is mounting for teams to finish in one of the elusive top four positions and claim a Play-Off spot if they are to have a chance of appearing in the 2011 Grand Final. Munster, who sit atop the table, find themselves in pole position, resting on a nine point lead. With a potential home semi final on May 13 or 14, all games are now crucial for the Red Army.
Cardiff Blues’ only defeat in their last six Magners League matches was 13-32 in Ulster on 25 February. The Blues most recent loss at Cardiff City Stadium in the Magners League was 15-37 to Ulster on 21 November.
Munster have lost only one Magners League encounter since November: 18-19 in Treviso on 13 February. However, the Munstermen have lost on their last five visits to Wales in all competitions. The last six clashes between the two sides have all been won by the home side on the day, whilst Munster’s only previous win on Blues soil in the Magners League was 18-16 at the Arms Park on 4 November 2005.
Munster’s next home game is on April 2nd versus old rivals and five derbies in a row winning Leinster.
That one kicks off at 19.30, while this weekend’s game is a 19.05 start.
