Taute, ‘I Grew Up Watching Munster’

They say a picture can tell a thousand words and the above snapshot of Saturday’s historic win over Glasgow gives us more than a little insight into the impact Munster has made on short term signing Jaco Taute.

Joining the province on a four-month loan basis from the Stormers in September, last Saturday marked just his third outing in the red jersey and already his second Munster try.  Events leading up to the Champions Cup encounter made for an emotionally charged week and the South African’s reaction when crossing the whitewash on 13 minutes showed just what it meant to aid Munster’s cause when they needed it most.
 
“It was a very emotional week but the way everyone dealt with it was special and shows a lot about the community of Munster.  Anthony was a big part of this province as a player and as a coach in recent years and everyone was emotionally affected by his passing.  Even though I only knew him for a month I could see how special he was to Munster and the community.
 
“The guys were so focused on putting in a good performance that we didn’t even think about winning or losing.  It was about getting our systems right and honouring the man that Anthony Foley was and always will be to this community.  It was a very hectic week all the same and to be honest it’s hard to remember lots of it but I’m so grateful that we paid him a proper tribute on Saturday.” 
 
In some ways the story came full circle for Taute on Saturday, watching from afar in Johannesburg in his younger years where he also became acquainted with tales of famous wins at Fortress Thomond.
 
“I absolutely love it (life at Munster). I grew up watching Munster play and had always heard the rumours of Thomond Park and the great wins.  I am very grateful to have experienced it for myself so far.  The Irish people have been so friendly.”
 
The centre will start at 13 for Munster against Ulster in Belfast tomorrow evening.
 
Ulster v Munster, Guinness PRO12 round 7, Friday October 28^th at the Kingspan Stadium – ko 7.05pm.

Next Home Game:
Munster welcome Ospreys to Irish Independent Park, Cork next Friday November 4^th at 7.35pm. Tickets can be purchased online here or from the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Irish Independent Park and Thomond Park.