ALL the pointers are that Munster’s European Champions Cup quarter-final against Bordeaux Bègles at Stade Chaban Delma later today (3pm) is going to be a close affair, but the firm belief is that Ian Costello’s charges will prevail.
Everything appears to be falling into place with coach Mikey Prendergast’s flowing style of attack causing havoc for defences and the workrate all over the field at a very high success rate in recent weeks.
Traditionally sound at scrum time, the pack has been faultless with Tadhg Beirne not only “absolutely fabulous” at the breakdown but an inspiration to those around him.
After being let go by Leinster, the Kildare man joined the Scarlets and he was on the winning side of the Guinness Pro 12 final in 2011 against Munster in the Aviva Stadium.
He joined Munster in 2018 and is now rated as one of the top lock forwards in world rugby.
Bordeaux are currently in second place in the French Top 14, five points adrift of top side Toulouse and they are sure to put up a fight.
They looked sharp against Ulster on Sunday, running out 43-31 winners, but Munster will take note of the amount of points they conceded rather than the result.
The Begles appear to be tight in the pack with Ben Tameifuna and Adam Coleman scoring tries from mauls last week-end.
Right wing Damian Penaud is also to be watched. He ran half the length of the pitch for a dynamic spectacular touchdown.
Former Munster man Joey Carbery put in a handy shift at the weekend. Born in New Zealand, he was involved in two of the home side’s tries, as well as kicking the extras to all four scores.
On leaving Munster, Carbery explained: “My move to the Top 14 with Bordeaux was a fresh start after a frustrating run of injuries.”
The search for tickets for the game over the past few days has been frantic as the Red Army hit the seas/road/skies/tracks once more.
