IT is finally here. The big one. Munster versus Leinster. Without doubt the biggest game of domestic rugby this country possesses. Special laws have been made in Limerick City to suit this match and it’s supporting masses. The management and players of each side will tell you, “this is just another game. A chance to get four points. We need to concentrate on ourselves, etc. etc.” Fans though, know deep down that no matter what they say, this is THE one.
Crumbled fixture lists are removed from wallets all over the country and a red ‘x’ is put next to these two ties. For Munster fans the Heineken Cup semi final defeat last season was hard to take, but then the RDS happened. A 30-0 hammering at the hands of the Heineken Cup champions was more unbelievable than anything else.
Friday now offers the fans and players a chance for redemption. The throats of the capacity crowd will be well lubricated by the time 8 o’clock comes around. The atmosphere will be immense. There is a game taking place of course and four points are at stake. A 3-0 win would be taken now, but there should be more to it than that. Munster Coach Tony Mc Gahan this week did state that “there was a lot to play for emotionally, but that the game was just another in Munster’s quest for a top four spot. Leinster coach Michael Cheika, in his last derby appearance, feels that form goes out the window and there is no way of predicting a result. When this journalist asked Mc Gahan for one or two areas that he will be focussing on, the reply given included everything from tackle bags to the water in the bottles.
The game itself will be won at the breakdown. Messrs Niall Ronan and Ian Dowling informed us this week that they “know as much as us about the new interpretations”, stating that no changes have been made officially, but there were some changes in the games they have played. Confused? We all will be on Friday. This is why it is crucial for Munster to dominate at that facet. The line outs will be under pressure too. Cullen and co will test the returning Flannery upon his return from suspension. The key match up, of course, is at number 10. Sexton versus O Gara will be a game to watch in itself. Whomever wins that one, be it kicking goals or directing the game, wins the whole lot. Simple I know, but exciting all the same. I know you can’t wait, the whole World will be watching.
Kick off is at 8 o’clock and rumours are abound that pubs are open too. . .
