European Cup adventure to France
Yesterday at 01:00 PM
THE La Rochelle players will be playing for their coach 'Rog' (Ronan O'Gara) when Munster seek to add another defeat on the Cork man in Saturday's Champions Cup (5.30pm).
While the French side were suffering another defeat in the Top 14 at the weekend (they have not won a league match in over two months), Ian Costelloe's charges were putting on a superb performance on the unlikely turf of Mac Hale Park in Castlebar, Mayo.
After those runs of defeats, this was Munster as we know them, fighting for every yard, reducing the penalty count to the limit and when it looked as if their efforts could have been in vain, Jean Kleyn marked his return with a match-winning steal.
Down to 14 with a red card after just 25 minutes and shown two yellows during the fixture, this was the 'almost perfect' show from the Reds and if they can repeat the same courage and attitude in a few days' time, a Cup victory is on the cards.
Will home advantage prove to be a winning advantage for La Rochelle?
Not likely, if Munster can bring their strongest squad to Stade Marcel Deflandre.
The French camp has already admitted that they are in serious difficulties.
Backs coach Remi Tales commented: "We can only keep our mouths shut and show our fans what we're capable of."
O'Gara will be well informed about how the Munster coaching staff will approach this intriguing tie.
The two sides have travelled on rocky roads in recent months but when it comes to this trophy the gloves are off.
Admittedly, it is going to be a big ask for Munster but their large and loyal travelling fans could be celebrating at the final whistle.
Sadly, it looks like only a matter of time before Thomond Park will be overlooked for major Cup games.
This is on the back of the weekend annoucement that Cork's Páirc Uí Chaoimh – with its bigger capacity – will host a possible Cup fixture next December.
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