Munster face Dragons on Friday night looking to improve league position.

What is usually a routine game for Munster against a Dragons side that have struggled thus far in the league, has a different feel to it this weekend. Munster are currently trailing Conference A leaders Glasgow by 12 points and know full well another loss, with the Warriors in a rich vein of form at the top, would be a big blow to their ambitions of claiming top spot and a direct route to the semi finals.

Munster fans will get their first chance to see Chris Cloete who will make his first appearance for the province starting at blindside flanker, alongside Robin Copeland and Jack O’Donoghue. Chris Farrell has been released from Irish camp to start at 13 with Rory Scannell at 12 and Ian Keatley has also returned to take his place on the substitutes bench.

Rassie Erasmus, who is taking charge of what is more than likely going to be his last game, has named an exciting back three with top try scorer Alex Wooton returning to the wing, the French bound Simon Zebo at full back and Darren Sweetnam, who recently earned an Irish call up, on the other wing.

Action from the Dragons trip to Limerick last season

An interesting stat regarding the game is that Munster have only lost twice at home  since the start of last season, but on both occasions it has been to Welsh opposition, in the form of Cardiff and Scarlets. It could be something Bernard Jackman takes into consideration going to Irish independent Park on Friday evening.

Speaking ahead of his side’s clash, the departing Erasmus admitted he has been impressed with what the Dragons new coach has produced already saying

“It shows how much he has got right in a short space, they are building, building and gaining confidence and had some really good games so it’s going to be tough.”

Munster have to win this one if they are to be in with any chance of topping their conference this season and guaranteeing a home semi-final again, and what makes it that bit more interesting, is the fact table toppers Glasgow have a very tough game against a high flying Leinster side that put four tries over them in Europe only a few weeks previous.

Friday’s game is the first of what should be a ten point haul over the next two weeks and that is with full respect to the opposition. The fixtures list has been friendly to Munster for the November international window, let’s hope the team can make the most of it and get the good ship Munster back on course.