Munster 33 Connacht 40
23rd August 2002 By Munster Rugby
Munster completed their pre season preperation with a competitive fixture against Connacht in the Sportsground in Galway.
Munster completed their pre season preperation with a competitive fixture against Connacht in the Sportsground in Galway.
Played in front of a good size crowd. Munster were overcome by 7 tries to 5 and ended up losing the game 40 points to 33.
The game was played in 3 periods where both sides utilized their entire extended squad. Munster went behind to 15 minute James Norton try, but came back to take the lead when Jeremy Staunton converted a Dominic Malone try after 22 minutes. They trailed at the end of the 1st period by 8 points to 7. But briefly took the lead midway through the 2nd period when Kevin O’Riordan raced in for a fine try.
Tries from Ted Robinson, Darren Yapp and Eric Elwood gave the home side a commanding lead but Munster responded well with further tries from John Lacey and Clem Casey before Connacht got two further tries.
A Liam Browne converted try left just a score in it and Munster were not to get a chance as they pressed the Connacht line throughout the closing minutes of the game.