JOINING the throngs of Munster supporters who chose to walk back to the city centre after last weekend’s thrilling win brought on memories of bygone days.
There is something magical about Champions Cup matches in Thomond Park, and the fine 17-12 victory over Saracens certainly rated as one of the most memorable.
In contrast to the defeat by Leinster, there was an air of joy on the short Thomondgate journey and the Reds can now face the challenge of leaders Northampton Saints at Franklin’s Gardens on Saturday (3.15pm) with a degree of confidence.
Full marks to the home coaching team who acted early to make the replacements that changed the outcome of the game, and the winning tries (Dian Bleuler and John Hodnett) were the result of well-drilled attacks on tiring Saracens.
The atmosphere in the stadium at the final whistle told its own story: Munster are going to make a strong bid to reach the last 16 this season.
Captain Tadhg Beirne said the supporters, with 22,030 turning out at Thomond Park, “were absolutely incredible, we can’t thank them enough”.
“It was a proper Munster game and credit to the coaches who got it tactically right. If we can get a win over Northampton, we could be back here in Thomond Park for the last 16 round. What an occasion that would be.”
While every player gave their all, the return of Conor Murray at scrum-half after a long absence was also a factor.
“It was a tight game,” commented Murray, “the rugby was not perfect, but we just stayed in the fight. The crowd really stayed behind us and made us believe. It’s unbelievable to be back, I was feeling a bit jealous when I was out for the past few weeks.”
It will be interesting to see how Northampton will treat this fixture. They are already through to the next stage having taken a bonus point in their weekend win at Stade Francis.
After Munster’s display on Saturday, interim coach Ian Costello is unlikely to make many changes to the starting XV, barring injuries.
