"They've got to be licking their lips... they've the opportunity to go out there and get their team into a European Cup final."
Those were the words of Ronan O'Gara in the lead-up to Munster's Champions Cup semi-final with Saracens.
Simon Zebo, Keith Earls and Donnacha Ryan had all been tipped to make the British & Irish Lions squad but, on Wednesday, all three missed out.
All three had points to prove. Ryan and Zebo were simply immense.
Ryan was rabid. Zebo was unbeatable in the air and tormenting throughout.
And yet somehow Munster trailed 6-3 at the break. They tore into Saracens and did everything but score a try. The English side are not reigning champions for nothing though and soak up pressure only to force penalties that Owen Farrell knocked over.
Their fervent fans certainly appreciated the efforts of all their players but Ryan and Zebo got the bulk of the praise. Indeed, most were asking one question about Zebo.
Simon Zebo
https://twitter.com/__Senz/status/855795539815936002
https://twitter.com/TurnerBryce/status/855795288686112768
https://twitter.com/asheehan180/status/855795120297455617
As for those high balls...
https://twitter.com/JAMESKELLY9/status/855795686402650112
https://twitter.com/bubbleseverywer/status/855795116224765952
A lot of love for Donnacha too
https://twitter.com/jamesmadden720/status/855787532705050625
