Graham Rowntree, the head coach of Munster, has identified the lineout as a key area of their game that requires improvement. This is as they gear up for their match against the Sharks in Durban this coming Saturday, a team expected to field an almost all-Springbok pack. Following their loss to the Stormers last weekend, where Munster spoiled six lineouts, and a defeat by Leinster the previous week having lost five of their own throws at Croke Park, an urgent rectification is needed.
Rowntree, whose team has stayed in Cape Town all week and due to head to Durban on Friday, mentioned that he won’t be blaming anyone for their lineout problems which he believes are due to a combination of factors. Nonetheless, he expressed optimism as Munster has historically responded positively to challenging circumstances.
Briefly discussing their lineout struggles, Rowntree stated, “It’s been insufficient. This is something we are all aware of within the group, especially those involved with the lineout.” He stressed that the lineout is complex with several components and isn’t the responsibility of one person. He made reference to the pressure experienced during games, especially the last two against teams with strong lineout defences. This pressure can cause panic, impacting the smooth execution of the game.
Despite these challenges, Rowntree stated that they have been working on a range of things and acknowledged the need to improve in this area, with nobody in the team trying to avoid responsibility.
Rowntree expressed his belief in Munster’s ability to bounce back after difficult situations, and is optimistic they can maintain their momentum as they aim for four wins from their first six URC matches before the November hiatus. Facing a formidable Springbok pack in the scorching Durban heat this coming Saturday, the game is a pivotal one, particularly in light of recent developments.
Rowntree’s faith in his defensive line is unshaken, having observed the team successfully navigate through such circumstances previously. He stated that despite narrowly missing opportunities during recent games, the team has retained an inherent confidence. They need to improve their game play, focusing on accurate lineouts and fully utilising match opportunities as seen in their performance against Leinster and the Stormers.
Injury concerns have hounded Munster this season, with the latest casualty being Jeremy Loughman who joins Dave Kilcoyne, Josh Wycherley, and Mark Donnelly on the injured list – all of them looseheads. As a proactive response, Rowntree revealed plans to bring in temporary reinforcements.
In a positive roster update, it was confirmed that Bryan Fitzgerald, the 25-year-old centre from Garryowen, has extended his contract with the province for another three months, thus bolstering Munster’s backline.