Both sets of coaches see the tie as a “stepping stone” for the Champions Cup in 2 weeks.

Leinster versus Munster is always a standout fixture in the domestic rugby calendar for both players and fans alike. The fact that this year’s first interpro comes before crucial European outings for both sides adds extra incentive and spice to the contest.

Speaking to RTE Sport the Pro 14 launch in Dublin, Munster captain Peter O’Mahony openly admitted that Saturday’s result isn’t what they are focusing on. When asked if he’d take a solid performance over a win, the flanker said

“No, you’d take a good performance, yeah, 100%,” the Lions Test captain said.

“Rugby is hugely about building momentum and we lost a bit of that last week against Glasgow. We’ve regained a little bit now after last weekend.

“A good performance is always something you can be proud of whether you win or lose.

“You can win ugly sometimes but if you can build on your performances it’s the most important thing.”

Obviously Europe is still a huge priority for the provinces and their fans despite an Irish side not getting their hands on the trophy since Leinster beat Ulster in the 2012 final. Performances last season from both Munster and Leinster would indicate that he gap is closing but one thinks that there is still a bit of catching up to do in order to compete with the likes of Saracens at the very pinnacle of the European game.

Despite the looming European date with Montpellier, Leinster boss, Leo Cullen, echoes O’Mahony’s thoughts on the game:

“Munster is always a great stepping stone into Europe, a test for us in terms of where we are physically going into games”

Rassie Erasmus took it a step further calling the Pro 14 clash a “training match” ahead of the opening rounds of the Champions Cup:

“It’s going to be a great training match with physicality and intensity and the pressure we will experience,” he said. “Hopefully we can use that going into Europe. I see is as a perfect preparation for Castres away and then home to Racing so it’s ideal.”

Despite both coaches seemingly playing down the importance of Saturday’s game, one suspects that come kick off at the Aviva, that European exploits will be the last thing on players and fans minds as these two lock horns for the first time this year.

One also has to thing there is a fair amount of shadow boxing going on with both coaches, and while Montpellier and Castres will be huge challenges for Leinster and Munster respectively, the first interpro of the season is sure not to disappoint.