In an entertaining contest Munster A produced a six-try 40-12 victory over Connacht Eagles at Thomond Park this afternoon.
Both sides used today’s return ‘A’ Interprovincial fixture as an opportunity for players to secure game time ahead of Round 1 of the Guinness PRO14 next week.
This was the first time Munster lined out at the Limerick venue since the Guinness PRO14 encounter against Scarlets on 29 February.
In adherence with government measures 200 supporters attended the game with Munster Rugby Supporters Club members and 10 Year Ticket holders offered the opportunity to enter a draw for free entry.
As expected with extended squads, wholesale changes were made during the encounter with Munster A starting the second half with a different XV.
It finished 26-5 at the interval with Munster A scoring four tries in the opening half thanks to Rory Scannell, Rhys Marshall, Gavin Coombes and James Cronin.
Academy out half Ben Healy converted three of the tries.
Connacht Eagles only score came from Jack Carty, with the number 10 off target with his own conversion attempt.
Early in the second half the visitors were first to strike with Finlay Bealham scoring from close range. Carty kicked the conversion to make it 26-12.
Munster’s fifth try was scored by Niall Scannell off a lineout maul and with JJ Hanrahan taking over kicking duties he added the conversion to extend the lead further.
At the start of the final quarter Liam Coombes finished superbly to score in the right corner and JJ again added the extras to make it 40-12.
There were no further scores and overall, the game provided a good run out ahead of next Saturday’s Guinness PRO14 game against Scarlets at Parc y Scarlets (3pm).
Highlights from the game will follow on munsterrugby.ie on Monday.
Referee: Chris Busby.
