Munster seal play-off spot
Munster secured a losing bonus point from their defeat to Cardiff Blues to clinch the final spot in the Magners League play-offs.
By Rachel Griffiths
Last Updated: 09/05/10 9:35pm
Munster secured a losing bonus point from their 13-12 defeat to Cardiff Blues on Sunday to clinch the final spot in the Magners League play-offs.
A huge penalty from inside his own half by Leigh Halfpenny lifted the Blues to a dramatic victory in injury time, but it was all in vain as the Irish team secured the all-important place in the top four.
Both sides were clearly nervous early on with passes going off course at both ends, and Blues full-back Ben Blair added to the tension when he missed two long-range but kickable penalties.
He finally drew the first blood with a straightforward effort in front of the posts, but Ronan O'Gara had levelled for Munster within two minutes when the home side's backs strayed offside.
Munster number eight David Wallace was then held up by a Martyn Williams tackle just short of the line, and it was the Blues that eventually crossed as Jamie Roberts forced his way over and Blair converted from wide out.
Control
O'Gara's boot controlled the remainder of the half, however, as a trio of penalties put Munster back ahead by the break.
The Irish side tried to up the pace in the second half, invading the hosts' 22, but they were dealt a severe blow when prop Marcus Horan was sin-binned for slowing down home ball.
Blues then looked likely for a second try as Maama Molitika made a break which was carried on by Ceri Sweeney, but Munster took things back downfield and wing Tom Gleeson went close from another O'Gara kick.
Munster's acting captain then missed a shot at goal for the first time and the only score of the second period was Halfpenny's massive penalty in the added minutes, which raised a deafening cheer around the Cardiff City Stadium.
But it was not enough to stop Munster landing the crucial bonus point, which sees them move on to the next stage of the tournament.
