IT’S some time since a visiting team was shown two red cards in a European competition in Thomond Park, but ill-disciplined Stade Francais snapped up that record in a heavy Champions Cup defeat to Munster.
Fielding a second-string, the French side played into the hands of the home outfit who made the most of the opportunity.
It was a very impressive display by Ian Costelloe’s selection and they will go into Friday night’s round two fixture at Castres Olympique (8pm start) with a high degree of confidence.
Recently signed South African Dian Blenter impressed and the front row was as solid as the nearby King John’s Castle.
Munster’s running game sparkled and the defence was flawless.
It is encouraging that 11 of the starting XV learned their trade within the province which is a credit to the talented coaches at the schools’ junior and senior levels.
Munster clashes with Castre in this European competition are almost legendary and this week the build-up in both camps is being approached with caution.
Stade Pierre-Fabre is a difficult venue to go to and former Harlequins loose-head Will Collier, who will make his return in the Castres colours, described Castres as “a very small French town where everything revolves around rugby and food, which suits me just fine”.
Castres have yet to put together an away victory this season but they pride themselves in the fact that they have won all of their home games so far in the current Top 14.
According to Collier “it’s unacceptable for us to lose a home game”, and this comment will surely provide Munster with more determination to lower the colours of the French side.
With a bonus point in the bag, a second win in this competition is there for the taking.
It might be a big ask, but this current bunch of young eager beavers are hungry for success.
Things are looking up for Munster, a few of the injured are creeping back and spirits are high.
