Match Previews

Munster Named for European Opener

13th October 2017

Munster return to Champions Cup rugby taking on Castres Olympique this Sunday October 15 at Stade Pierre Antoine with Rassie Erasmus making five changes to the side that suffered defeat to Leinster at the Aviva last weekend.

In making the changes there are three introductions to the backline with Simon Zebo returning to take his place at fullback, Darren Sweetnam named on the wing, and Rory Scannell restored to midfield joining Champions Cup debutant Chris Farrell.

Keith Earls is retained on the wing after an impressive seasonal debut last Saturday that saw him score a brace against his interprovincial rivals.

As expected Conor Murray and Tyler Bleyendaal start, with Bleyendaal making the positional switch this week to renew their half-back pairing from last season.

In the forwards, newcomer Mark Flanagan makes his first start for the province and his Champions Cup debut, as he joins the most capped player Billy Holland in the engine room.

Stephen Archer is introduced to the front row alongside Niall Scannell and Dave Kilcoyne and it’s as you were across the back row with Tommy O’Donnell, captain Peter O’Mahony and CJ Stander.

Although the sides haven’t met since the 2011/12 season, this will be the 13th time these sides meet in Europe and in turn it becomes the most played fixture in the competition’s history.

Munster: Simon Zebo; Darren Sweetnam, Chris Farrell, Rory Scannell, Keith Earls; Tyler Bleyendaal, Conor Murray; Dave Kilcoyne, Niall Scannell, Stephen Archer; Mark Flanagan, Billy Holland; Peter O’Mahony Capt., Tommy O’Donnell, CJ Stander.

Replacements: Rhys Marshall, Liam O’Connor, John Ryan, Robin Copeland, Jack O’Donoghue, Duncan Williams, Ian Keatley, Andrew Conway.

Castres v Munster, Champions Cup round 1, Sunday October 15th at the Stade Pierre-Antoine, ko 2pm (1pm Irish).

This game will be televised on on Sky Sports.

Munster v Racing 92 Tickets

Europe comes to town when Munster play their first home game of the Champions Cup against Racing 92 on Saturday October 21 at 5.30pm.

Tickets from:

  • Adults €20
  • Juniors €10
  • Students €10

Tickets can be purchased online here, from the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Irish Independent Park and Thomond Park, or by calling 061 421103

Hospitality

Executive Box and Thomond Suite packages are now sold out for this game

1978 Suite packages remain is available and include:

  • East Stand match tickets
  • One course meal
  • Match programme
  • Complimentary drinks
  • Preview of the game with Munster Rugby player

Price: €175pp

For more information and bookings contact Anthony Morrissey on 087 6202530 or click here for a contact form.