Munster's remarkable Champions Cup campaign came to an end a the Aviva yesterday, running out of momentum as they clashed with the absurdly stiff sinew of champions Saracens. Rassie Erasmus admitted after the game that the 26-10 defeat was a "hiding", with the scoreboard given a bit of red gloss by CJ Stander's late try along with the fact Saracens let two very straight-forward tries go begging.
They did cross twice, however, with the game sealed with the second try ten minutes from the end. It was set up by a delightful grubber kick by Owen Farrell:
Farrell was the architect of Munster's demise, mixing that kind of deadly playmaking with some exceptionally clever defence to utterly outshine opposite number Tyler Blyendaal.
It was a much happier trip to Dublin for Farrell than his last sojourn to the Aviva and that continued after the game, as Farrell was given an introduction into what makes Munster that bit special. He and his father Andy went for dinner after the game in Dublin, and popped into Mulligans in Sandymount, to find it thronged with Munster fans. Far from given a hostile welcome, Farrell witnessed some typical characteristic dignity, and was loudly cheered by Munster supporters as he entered the pub.
One of those fans in the pub told Balls.ie that Farrell was initially taken aback by the reception, but was evidently thrilled. He and his father were then left alone to eat, before posing for photographs with supporters on their way out.
Top stuff from the Munster fans.
