The Munster Women’s team defeated Connacht 31-7 in Musgrave Park last Saturday September 4th.
The two sides were equally prepared for the second fixture of the Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship as until the 58th minute, the score remained 7-7.
Strong breaks from Muirne Wall and Meave Óg O’Leary set the foundation for Munster’s first try, as Clodagh O’Halloran was at the end of a series of well worked phases to give Munster the lead.
It wasn’t long before the visitors responded with a try of their own, when Ursula Sammon’s clean break saw her gallop under the post for Connacht’s first try and to bring the sides level.
Both sides enjoyed periods of possession but were unable to capitalise. Connacht were reduced to just 14 players, as Kate Feehan was shown yellow for a high tackle yet Munster were unable to capitalise against the reduced Connacht side.
Munster’s fitness outlasted Connacht’s in the second half as they rattled off three fast tries as the game entered its final quarter.
Munster’s Nicole Cronin, Stephanie Nunan and Deirbhile Nic a Bhaird all crossed the Connacht try line to add to O’Halloran’s first-half score and to establish a healthy Munster lead.
Munster led 26-7 in the games final few minutes as Connacht pushed for an extra score. The visitor’s attack appeared promising until a loose ball from a Connacht hand found its way to Aoife Doyle who scored in the corner.
Doyle’s try sealed Munster’s second bonus-point victory which sees them top of the Women’s Interprovincial championship table, as well as their impressive 31-7 scoreline.
Munster have a lot to be proud of as they travel to Dublin next Saturday to take on Leinster in the final game of the Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship.
Check out Munster lock Siobhan McCarthy’s post match interview below: