BEN Healy was the star performer in Munster’s smash-and-grab URC win over Ulster at Belfast’s Kingspan Stadium last night.
The out-half was introduced in the second-half – his first Munster appearance since the famous win over South Africa in November – and not long afterwards landed a penalty to cut the gap to six points.
He topped that off by diving over for a try from the final play and added the extras to give the visitors an unlikely 14-15 victory.
“That penalty decision was vital to take us to eight points,” said Munster head coach Graham Rowntree to RTE.ie.
“Then the composure we showed. One thing we have spoken about all week is belief in our fitness. I feel that showed tonight, the way we kept hold of the ball, kept the phases going in that second half.
“It was good patience and discipline at the end of the game to get the try. I’m immensely proud of the lads.
“All the good stuff we’ve been doing on the field, with Mike Prendergast in particular, is coming out in our game. It’s about keeping the belief.”
Rowntree was particularly pleased with the multi-purpose Jack Crowley
“He’s not bad, he gets enough plaudits, doesn’t he?” joked the coach.
“He’s been good for us. Jack’s a young man. He’s played three positions for us this season, showing incredible composure.
“He’s turning into a nice leader as well. He’s progressing nicely.”
Healy first came to the attention of many when he captained Glenstal Abbey to win the 2018 Munster Schools Senior Cup. Two years ago, the Tipperary man was Munster’s Academy Player of the Season. He has represented Ireland at various underage levels, including the Grand Slam winning team of ’19.
