It was a historic day for Munster down in South Africa yesterday as late a Conor Murray try saw them win 27-22 in Pretoria against the Bulls.
In tough conditions at 1350m high altitude, Munster had multiple players who put in man-of-the-match worthy performances. However, their vastly experienced scrum-half was perhaps the best of them.
Murray, along with Jack Crowley, were phenomenal in the first half as they were able to keep control of the game and head into the sheds at halftime 17-10 ahead, with an RG Snyman try just before the break putting them in a strong position.
With the game in the balance after a Kurt-Lee Arendse try for the Bulls, Murray was taken off for Craig Casey, most likely in an effort to speed up the game.
However, moments after coming on, Casey went off for a HIA after a head on head collision with Johan Goosens which saw the Bulls player sent off.
This is where Murray truly rolled back the years, reminding fans why he was once considered one of the best scrum-halves in the world. His kicking was top drawer and his work rate around the park after playing over an hour at altitude was commendable.
He scored the go-ahead try in the corner, pumping his legs and stretching over the line after receiving an offload from Joey Carbery.
A brilliant performance from Conor Murray with the scrum-half securing the match winning try 💪#BULvMUN #SUAF 🔴
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) April 20, 2024
It was the score that gave Munster the victory and a bright spark in what's been a tough campaign for multiple reasons both on and off the pitch for the Red Army.
Conor Murray Praised After All-Time Performance
Murray was rightfully praised for his display after the game, with many happy to see him back to his best.
Conor Murray decided to rock up and be like "it's 2017, I just got my 23&Me results back and it turns out I'm 100% HIMalayan" #BULvMUN
— Three Red Kings (@threeredkings) April 20, 2024
Outstanding display from Conor Murray, kicking game superb in SA again - answered the critics re that new contract. Nash and Daly willing runners all game. Bench huge. Very impressive victory. Munster will think if only they could have got this squad out in Europe at all...
— Michael Cantillon (@mike_cantillon) April 20, 2024
It was also quite interesting to see that Murray kicked the ball away with 2 minutes left on the clock, something he was criticised for after Ireland's loss to England. He later opened up about the obscene levels of abuse he received following the defeat.
This time around, after kicking the ball away Munster's defence was able to hold out and a Tadhg Beirne penalty turnover gave them victory.
England v Ireland: Conor Murray kicks a clearing box to touch with 2 minutes left. Ireland concede and lose.
Bulls v Munster: Conor Murray kicks a clearing box down field with 2 minutes left. Munster hold out, turn over and win
Maybe the decision vs England was right after all? pic.twitter.com/mfep0EKZLY
— CaolanSRugby (@CaolanSRugby) April 21, 2024
It wasn't just an important performance for Munster but for Murray as well.
The legendary scrum-half has received criticism over the past couple of years, with the rise of Jamison Gibson-Park for Ireland and Craig Casey beginning to show signs of being a good scrum-half at Munster.
Many questioned Munster's decision to re-sign the 35-year old recently, as some believe Casey is ready to breakthrough as the first string scrum-half in Limerick.
However, with performances like yesterday it's hard to boot Murray off. He still has plenty left in the tank.
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