Munster Make The Right Start

Munster’s opening round 20-12 victory over Newport Gwent Dragons in tonight’s RaboDirect PRO 12 League at Musgrave Park owed much to two super first half tries and then some teak tough defence in the second half.

The first try came in the 26th minute, Danny Barnes finishing off a move that started when Peter O'Mahony turned over possession in his own 22 and the second was a another gem off a lineout take at the tail by Billy Holland who passed inside to Denis Hurley who then sent Lifeimi Mafi scampering home.

Munster led 17-6 at the break but at one stage in the second half were playing with 13 after O'Mahony and then Damien Varley were yelllow carded by Italian referee Stefano Penne.

Munster ceded six points in this period but an Ian Keatley penalty in the 73rd minute left eight points separating the sides and it remained like that after Jason Tovey was short with a longe rane effort in the 79th minute