WATCH: Johann van Graan reflects on 1 year in charge at Munster

With much improvement in his side over the past twelve months it is hard to believe that Johann van Graan only took up the role as Munster’s Head Coach just over a year ago.

A Champions Cup semi final, as well as a Pro 14 Semi Final were achieved by van Graan’s side in his first couple of months in charge.

In his first full year in charge, Munster have continued to improve with more emphasis on an attacking style of rugby evident thus far this season.

Reflecting on the year he’s had, van Graan says he has fond memories of Munster’s classic win over the European juggernaut Toulon in Thomond Park earlier this year where a late Andrew Conway try sealed victory.

“The Toulon game stands out. That full house at Thomond Park. The way the 16th man carried us through. The way the players responded, we were down and out in certain parts of the game but we kept believing and kept fighting until the final whistle.”

Munster’s on field exploits this season have been a direct reflection on their manner who is keen for players to express themselves, with a keen emphasis placed on players enjoyment on field.

“The very first day Isaid to the guys, you must always always be yourself. I want people, not player to be happy. Ibelieve that if players are happy it is a very enjoyable enviroment.

“I think we’ve found a good balance between training hard but also enjoying it.”

The interview in full can be watched on Munster Rugbys YouTube channel.

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