Munster A recorded a 28-8 victory at Old Crescent RFC tonight when taking on Ospreys Premiership Select in round three of the British and Irish Cup.
Leading 8-3 at half-time thanks to a converted Matt D'Arcy try, Munster A went on to score three second half tries in securing the bonus point win tonight at a cold but dry Rosbrien.
An entertaining game saw both sides shift the ball at pace but Munster A would have been disappointed with missed opportunities in the opening 40 after a series of knock-ons ended promising attacking play. Although it was dry for the game the ball was greasy from the previous days rainfall.
Despite early discipline issues for Munster A the visitors were unable to capitalise with number 10 Joel Matavesi missing two penalty kicks in the opening ten minutes.
In turn Munster A were the first to get on the scoreboard after Captain Billy Holland offloaded to centre Matt D'Arcy who darted around the Ospreys defence for the opening try. Young academy outhalf Bill Johnston added the conversion.
Further Munster indiscipline provided Matavesi a third penalty chance and the outhalf was successful with his attempt on the half-hour mark, and the sides finished 7-3 at the break.
Better ball control in the second half saw Mick O’Driscoll’s side convert possession into points with three tries scored, and the all-important try bonus point after 70 minutes.
Forwards Shane Buckley, Kevin O’Byrne and Sean McCarthy all touched down for Munster A. Buckley and O’Byrne both scored off dominant lineout mauls while McCarthy crossed from close range after the men in red kept the ball in tight for a series of pick and goes.
Bill Johnston completed a successful night from the tee by converting all four tries.
Munster A travel for the return fixture at Brewery Field next Sunday December 20th, ko 3pm.
