Munster v Glasgow was always going to be a hotly tested affair with both sides meeting for the fourth time this season.
And again it proved to be a one-point score in the difference as the province rounded off Cork’s Guinness PRO12 action of the season with a 10-7 victory over their Scottish rivals.
Although only seven points had been scored by the break it was a hugely entertaining contest from start to finish as Munster withstood a late Glasgow rally to push clear in second place.
Top class defence and composure held Glasgow scoreless for the opening forty, while Munster struck early through a converted James Cronin try.
It was all Munster in the opening minutes as newcomer Jean Deysel marked his debut in impressive style smashing into the Glasgow defence with huge carries while also making his presence felt at the breakdown.
The number 6 was central to the opening score as he edged Munster closer to the visitor’s line before a series of pick and goes saw James Cronin crash over from close-range.
Tyler Bleyendaal stepped up to add the extras, however, minutes later the Kiwi’s involvement ended prematurely when he was removed for a HIA.
The Scots grew into the game and the pace didn’t let up as both sides packed a punch with the capacity crowd at Irish Independent Park treated to an intense and hugely physical first half.
Fullback Andrew Conway was at the end of the aerial onslaught, chasing everything Glasgow threw at him while also making the hits when needed, in particular on one Lee Jones carry out wide as he bundled the winger into touch.
The men in red would go on to face a nervy finish due to missed opportunities coming by way of man of the match Conor Oliver and Ronan O’Mahony during the third quarter. The TMO was kept busy as he ruled both efforts out before Rory Scannell slotted a penalty after Glasgow were pinged for holding on.
The visitors hit back through a Stuart Hogg try as the fullback chipped the Munster defence to claim the bouncing ball out wide and run in under the posts. Finn Russell kicked the conversion to leave a three point margin going into the final ten minutes.
The strength in depth played its part as an experienced bench provided cohesiveness at a crucial time and the collective defensive effort stood firm to see off any further Glasgow threat.
Guinness PRO12 round 19 roundup: It was confirmed post-match that Tyler Bleyendaal sustained a concussion while James Cronin needs to be assessed further for a knee injury.
Academy back row Conor Oliver was awarded the man of the match. Rory Scannell made his 50th appearance for the province while Jean Deysel made his provincial debut.
In retaining second place Munster are seven points clear of Ospreys in third.
Munster: Andrew Conway; Darren Sweetnam, Francis Saili, Jaco Taute, Ronan O’Mahony (S Zebo 74); Tyler Bleyendaal (R Scannell 8), Duncan Williams; James Cronin (D Kilcoyne 42), Rhys Marshall (N Scannell 49), Stephen Archer (J Ryan 49); Dave O’Callaghan, Billy Holland – capt.; Jean Deysel (P O’Mahony 42), Conor Oliver, Jack O’Donoghue (D Ryan 53).
Video | View Conor Oliver’s post match reaction below.