Archer confident that Munster can keep the momentum flowing

Munster return to Pro14 action this weekend with a trip to Italy and a game with Zebre after a two week break. Johann van Graan’s men won for their first away game of the season last time out and tighthead prop, Steven Archer, is hoping that Munster can kick on from here.

“I suppose the Glasgow and Cheetahs games were ones we could have lost. They are sometimes the most enjoyable to win. Obviously, getting last minute kicks in both of them, you don’t want to be doing that every week but it’s nice to know that you can if you need to. Some of the young lads, especially in the Cheetahs match, had a lot of bottle and showed what they can do.”

Munster face a Zebre side that have three wins to their name this season and have made their home at Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi a very difficult place for visiting sides to come in recent times.

“It will be tough,” said Archer of the challenge that lies ahead. “I imagine It will be cold down there and wet. It always is this year.

“They will be missing a few internationals as well but they will be a tough test. They have only lost once this year there so far. It’s not an easy place to go and I’m sure that Michael Bradley will have them chomping at the bit to get at us.”

There are plenty of distractions around this time of year with so many players away with the Irish team but Archer is fully focused on the job at hand. Following the Cheetahs game on November 4, Munster enjoyed a break before returning to training last week.

“There is distraction but for fellas like myself and lads that aren’t away at International camp this is the only thing we are focusing on. We had the week off and then it was back to training and fully focused on the Zebre game.

“To be honest, with it being a Sunday game as well, it’s a longer lead in than normal. I’m just looking forward to getting back onto the pitch and playing rugby. You just want to keep the momentum from the last few wins going.

“I think if we can manage to win this weekend, hopefully win at home the following weekend and then you are into Europe. It’s all about keeping that momentum going. Rugby is all about momentum and keeping that winning habit.”