Munster Down And Almost Out

The chances of Munster reaching the knock-out stages of the Heineken Cup for a fifth consecutive season virtually disappeared when they were beaten 23-8 in Perpignan on Saturday. The defeat means that they must now beat Gloucester in Thomond Park on Saturday next and do so by four clear tries. On the evidence of what was seen in the second half on Saturday, that may be well beyond this Munster side.

Ulster also have a chance to make the knock-out stages following their 33-21 win over Cardiff at the Arms Park. Their last game is against Northampton in Ravenhill on Saturday and like Munster they also need to win by four clear tries to be sure of a place in the next stage. It’s a daunting task for Alan Solomons side but with their superb support, it’s a task that is not beyond them.

Leinster, already qualified before their game with Swansea now need to win away to Bristol to secure a home quarter final.