OLD Crescent entertain Cork Constitution in the semi-final of the Bank of Ireland Munster Senior Cup at Takumi Park on Saturday, 2.30pm.
Ahead of the tie, Munster Rugby captured the thoughts of Crescent captain John Toland.
How are the excitement levels ahead of Saturday’s semi-final?
Obviously, we’re aware that we won’t be favourites for this one but it’s a good opportunity for us to go up against a top side and there’s no pressure on us really so we’re excited for it.
How has your pre-season and preparation been throughout the Summer?
Yeah we had a very good pre-season to be fair. We got going at the end of June and start of July. It has been pretty tough to be fair. There has been a big emphasis on fitness obviously. The coaches have been good. We have a big squad numbers-wise as well. A young squad as well. We have a lot of lads who have come up through 20s and stuff in the last few years so it’s exciting.
How have you found the new format of the Munster Senior Challenge Cup?
The more games the better because in the group games, a lot of lads got an opportunity. Separate teams went out for each game so a lot of people got a chance to put their hand up. It worked out well for us and it’s good preparation for the AIL, which is only a few weeks away now.
What would it mean to reach the final?
I think the last time we were in a semi-final was ten or 15 years ago. It would be huge to get to past this and to get into a final. It would be unreal. So there’s plenty to look forward to on Saturday and hopefully things go well and we can get a good result.
What are you expecting from the opposition this weekend?
They’ve (Cork Con) been one of the best sides in the country over the last few years so we know they’ll be pretty strong up front and probably well able to play good rugby as well. It’s definitely a good challenge for us. Hopefully we can give a good account of ourselves anyway and stop them if we can.
The other semi-final between Garryowen and Bruff has been postponed due to the death of Hannah Maher, mother of Bruff captain Pa.
