Murray Kinsella reports from Stade Yves du Manoir
WHILE RACING 92 were missing some of their frontline forwards, Munster must have taken deep satisfaction from outmuscling the French side’s pack in Paris this evening.
Donnacha Ryan ran a lineout that won 12 out of 13 on their own throw, while the scrum was also at the 90% mark and won a couple of crucial penalties into the mix. Maul-wise, Munster were dominant, while their ruck work was a joy to watch once again.
Munster huddle up during a minute’s applause for Axel. Source: James Crombie/INPHO
In the halfbacks, Conor Murray oozed his class, while Tyler Bleyendaal controlled their game plan well, aside from one skewed kick straight into touch. The back three were always capable of creating something, while Rory Scannell unsurprisingly shone alongside Jaco Taute.
While Racing were dismal and should be embarrassed to lose on a 32-7 scoreline at home, this was another highly encouraging showing from Munster.
Given that they were returning to Paris almost 12 weeks after the death of Anthony Foley here, with all that emotional baggage, it was even more impressive that Munster were so efficient in notching this bonus-point win.
“It was tough to be back,” said captain Peter O’Mahony after his side’s convincing victory.
While Racing find themselves in the midst of a disappointing season so far – they have zero match points from four Champions Cup games and now lie ninth in the Top 14 – it’s worth remembering that they are the reigning champions of France and reached the final of Europe last season.
Even with key players taken out of the Racing equation this evening, it’s a win that Munster will draw belief from.
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