Munster ran in three tries and completely outplayed Leinster during this evening’s big 28-13 win, completing the league sweep for this season on their big rivals.
Plenty of players stood out for Anthony Foley’s side, and here’s how they rated.
Felix Jones 9
As usual, Jones threw himself under high ball after high ball, and in attack he ran with intent. Looking like a big leader in this Munster side, on his third and biggest outing as captain. Part of the discussion for man-of-the-match, and looks to be getting better week on week.
Andrew Conway 8
Spotted the gap after D’Arcy shot up and took his try excellently. A pretty big moment for the former Leinster man, his try putting Munster firmly in the driving seat early in the second half.
Pat Howard 7
A quiet first half, but Howard came to life early in the second, putting Zane Kirchner on his backside and winning an excellent penalty.
Denis Hurley 7
Was his usual quiet but dependable self, but his offload in the buildup to Andrew Conway was a crucial moment in the game. Far from a natural at 12, but works his fingers to the bone.
Ronan O’Mahony 8
Looked a major threat every time he touched the ball. Ran with power and confidence. Had a much quieter time after the break, but really stood up on a big night for Munster.
Ian Keatley 9
His early garryowens caused a lot of trouble in the first half, and his break and link up with Felix Jones could have resulted in a try of the season contender. Missed a couple of kicks, but his play, especially with the ball in hand, was a real statement.
Duncan Williams 8
Was targeted big time by Leinster at the breakdown, but responded with good aggression, and didn’t panic. Used the elements to his advantage with some decent box-kicking.
John Ryan 6
Found things tough in the scrum up against Tadhg Furlong, but kept his discipline despite going backwards on a few occasions, limiting the damage done by his opponent.
Duncan Casey 7
Was part of the extended Irish camp meet-up last weekend, and Joe Schmidt will be pleased enough with what he saw from a player who, despite being on the outside looking in, could feature in his plans in the case of an injury.
Stephen Archer 6
A big chance for Archer given Ireland’s limited options at tight-head, but didn’t do much to make Joe Schmidt sit up and be counted.
Donncha O’Callaghan 7
Threw himself around the place and remained disciplined, an area he’s been careless in at times this season. A big part of Munster’s excellent lineout.
Billy Holland 8
A real presence at the lineout, stealing ball disrupting the Leinster throw. Got pinged for interfering with the opposition jumper towards the end of the game, but overall was one of Munster’s key performers in the pack.
CJ Stander 9
Took his try well and seemed to occupy two tacklers most times he carried the ball. Voted man-of-the match, and it would be a brave man to try take it away from him. Could have had a sensational breakaway try late on, but it got called back.
Tommy O’Donnell 9
A huge performance from O’Donnell in defence, and carried with real intent. Sent Ian Madigan flying during the first half after a rampaging run, and would have been a real contender for man-of-the match, had he remained on the pitch for a few more minutes.
Robin Copeland (not rated)
A real disappointing evening for Copeland, who had a big chance to impress at number 8. Looked solid before his untimely departure.
Subs
Paddy Butler 8
Ended up playing quite a bit longer than expected, and put in an excellent day’s work after replacing Robin Copeland early on. His break through midfield showed serious power in the second half, and we won’t knock him for the grubber attempt.
JJ Hanrahan 6
A quiet enough outing from Hanrahan in his 20 or so minute appearance
BJ Botha 6
Did real damage on his opening scrum, but had trouble soon after. His topless rucking towards the end of the game was a highlight for the fans, and a slap on his back may have been advisable for the Leinster forwards.
Dave O’Callaghan 7
Took his try well, darting down the blindside, and he and Paddy Butler showed the real depth Munster have in the back row.
Eusebio Guinazu 6
Plugging the hole Munster have at loose-head at the moment, but is doing so admirably. Has test caps for the Pumas as a prop, and looks set to extend his short term contract at Munster.
Johne Murphy, Neil Cronin and Kevin O’Byrne not on long enough to be rated.
