Munster’s backs coach, Mike Prendergast, has expressed anger over the squandered chances at Croke Park the past week. As he reflected on the situation from the team’s base in Cape Town, where they’re set to play against the Stormers this Saturday, he discussed parts of the 26-12 loss against Leinster that could’ve possibly gone better. Despite recognising that luck wasn’t always on their side, he did acknowledge missed opportunities, particularly two significant ones within four or five metres from the line.
Through a more detailed examination of the game, Prendergast mentioned: “We were able to score two tries and one more that could’ve been allowed. We faced the formidable Leinster, but had our moments, especially in the second half, when we penetrated their defences. However, they were adept at creating another ruck, and executing a significant play to stop us.”
Prendergast’s frustration was palpable as he reflected on Munster’s inability to capitalise on Leinster’s weaknesses. Although an acknowledgement of a refereeing mistake was made by URC, when Munster was unfairly limited to 14 players, it was also accepted that Leinster took advantage of the scoring opportunities whereas Munster did not.
Prendergast further added, “One common theme has been about ‘pulling the trigger’ and maintaining composure, especially when faced with tough defences. Such an instance happened with the Glasgow semi-final last year. The game’s overview and the majority of the scoreline may suggest another narrative. But upon critical evaluation, when facing formidable teams like Leinster, these are the chances which must be seized in high-stakes rugby.”
Leolin Zas, the speedster for the Stormers, is eager to draw a line under a disappointing three-game URC European tour as he turns his attention to their opening home game against Munster this Saturday.
The South African squad had a rather mixed performance in their most recent URC tour. Starting with a disappointing 24-37 defeat against the Ospreys, they rallied to thrash Zebre 36-5 at the Stadio Lanfranchi. Yet, they concluded with a discouraging loss of 7-38 in Edinburgh just last weekend. Zas, with a brace of tries against the Italian team, acknowledged, “This isn’t new territory for us. We’ve picked ourselves up before, like when we suffered four consecutive losses last season and when the inaugural season tour saw us with just one victory.”
The upcoming Saturday match is a replay of the exhilarating 2022-23 URC finals between the two sides beneath the imposing backdrop of Table Mountain, with Munster being triumphant. Zas confidently stated, “The lads are collected and composed. We are not dwelling on bygone events. What’s done is done. Right now, our sights are set on this Saturday. The defeat to Edinburgh was indeed a blow, but we’re more than ready for the upcoming challenge.”