The home side took maximum points from the game with tries from hooker Barry Williams, flanker James Bater and wing Shane Williams who scored twice.

Second placed Munster take on Connacht at the Galway Sportsground (2pm) while Leinster, in third place, have home advantage (Donnybrook)over Ulster.

The result from The Gnoll puts added pressure on Munster as they face up to the challenge of a Connacht side who will fancy their chances following a share of the spoils (27-27) when the sides met earlier in Musgrave Park. Besides the neccessity for points to keep in touch with the leaders, Munster will know that Leinster - who visit Cork next weekend - are likely to close the gap following the visit of Ulster to D4 later in the evening.

Just six points separate second and third placed Munster and Leinster respectively with Declan Kidney's side well placed to take maximum points now that Gordon D'Arcy is back to take his place in a backline that includes David Holwell, Shane Horgan and Felipe Contepomi.