Cardiff Calling In Round 7

We preview Munster’s Round 7 clash in the Guinness PRO12 away to Cardiff Blues on Saturday, and we get the pre-match thoughts of Billy Holland.

Following two consecutive European victories, Munster return to Guinness PRO12 action this Saturday night, away to Cardiff Blues at the Cardiff Arms Park – KO 5:15pm.

In fact, both sides will be buoyed by back-to-back victories in Europe. Munster have defeated Sale Sharks and Saracens in Pool 1 of the Champions Cup, with Cardiff overcoming Grenoble and Italian outfit Femi-CZ Rugby Rovigo in Pool 1 of the Challenge Cup.

Munster have a perfect played three, won three record on the road this season in all competitions, but were defeated on their most recent visit to Wales, 13-18 at the Scarlets in March, while Blues will look to improve on just one win (defeating Zebre) in the league so far this season.

Having already played three of the four Irish provinces in the PRO12 to date, the Welshmen were unlucky not to achieve a result on Irish soil when they drew 24-24 with Connacht earlier this month at the Sportsground.

Connacht will watch this weekend’s fixture in the Welsh capital with added interest as Munster lie just one place (4^th) and one point ahead (19) of the western province on the Guinness PRO12 league table.

This weekend’s action may also settle a local score for the home side on Saturday. Like Cardiff, Newport Gwent Dragons have also amassed 7 points from 6 games, but better points’ deferential currently keeps the Newport-men ahead of their Welsh counterparts in 9^th.

Speaking to media after training yesterday, Munster second row Billy Holland looked ahead to a tough challenge for the province in Cardiff.

“Cardiff Arms Park is a famous ground and a very tough place to go. We know that from our trip there two years ago when it took a last minute try from Casey Laulala against his old team to win the game for us.

“We’re very aware of just how difficult it’s going to be on Saturday. There will be a lot of changes, but by the same token, a lot of guys will be coming in looking to put their hands up and put in a good performance.

“With it being such a competitive squad in terms of getting your place, guys are constantly looking for an opportunity, and this weekend is a massive opportunity to impress and continue the good work from the last few weeks.

“Good set piece and intensity at the breakdown is crucial once again this weekend. We have a good back line and we want to give them good ball so they can play off it.”

Cardiff Blues v Munster, Guinness PRO12 Round 7, Cardiff Arms Park, Saturday November 1st – KO 5:15pm

This game will be televised live on Sky Sports 2.