The call up today from Ireland coach Eddie O’Sullivan for Tony Buckley has forced Declan Kidney to make a last minute change to his side for tomorrow’s Magners League clash with Newport Gwent Dragons at Rodney Parade.
Speaking about the late change to the Munster line-up, coach Declan Kidney said: “Obviously we are delighted for Tony, it’s a great honour for him and he travels with the best wishes of everyone in the squad.”
In terms of his selection for Rodney Parade, there is a semblance of a settled side given that injuries aside, Munster have retained the core of those who played against the US Eagles and Llanelli Scarlets.
“In terms of the change in the backs, it’s simply a question of realising it’s a long season and a particularly busy few weeks ahead. So when the opportunity arises to give players a breather, we will,” Kidney admitted.
“Rua Tipoki played very well last week, Lifeimi Mafi did also in the friendlies. In the two of them we are fortunate to have two great players who can either start or come off the bench as an impact replacement.”
In terms of the task ahead, Kidney said: “It’s a huge challenge against the Dragons. You only have to look at the results for everyone and see how difficult it is to win away from home in this competition. Certainly our record in Wales in recent times is not good so that gives an idea of what lies ahead for us tomorrow night.”
MUNSTER: Shaun Payne; Ian Dowling, Kieran Lewis, Lifeimi Mafi, Anthony Horgan; Paul Warwick, Tomas O’Leary; Darragh Hurley, Denis Fogarty, Federico Pucciariello, Mark Melbourne, Mick O’Driscoll, Billy Holland, Niall Ronan, Anthony Foley (capt).
Replacements: Sean Cronin, Tim Ryan, Tommy O’Donnell, James Coughlan, Gerry Hurley, Jeremy Manning, Rua Tipoki.
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