Munster maul Tigers to take Euro command
MUNSTER recorded their first win at Welford Road in 11 years with a 25-16 success over Leicester Tigers in the European Champions Cup last night.
Mathew Tait had scored an early try for Tigers but their ill-discipline was punished by Ian Keatley, who kicked six penalties.
CJ Stander also went over from close range for Munster, who are now firmly in control of Pool 4 after back-to-back wins against the Tigers.
George Ford opened the scoring in the second minute with a penalty but the Tigers were soon penalised at the other end and Keatley levelled from the tee.
Graham Kitchener sent Tait through a big hole in the Munster defence for his first try in 36 matches.
Ford added the extras but the home side’s poor discipline allowed Munster back into the game with three easy penalties for Keatley making the score 1210 at half-time.
Leicester’s constant infringements were punished by referee Mathieu Raynal as Dan Cole, after conceding his fifth penalty, was shown a yellow card.
Munster made their numerical advantage tell with a perfect start to the second half, Stander getting the visitors’ first try.
Munster replacement John Ryan was shown a yellow card for an infringement at the ruck 10 metres from the line and Ford made it 19-16 from the tee.
Keatley knocked over a sixth penalty to deny Tigers a crucial losing bonus point.
• MUNSTER regained the Women’s Inter-Pro title with an 11-5 win over Leinster at Thomond Park while Ulster finished a disappointing fourth after losing 29-7 to Connacht at Deramore Park.
Ulster had a Brittany Hogan try goaled by Beth Cregan.