Munster 23-21 Northampton

Ronan O'Gara was the hero of the hour as he sent his side to a thrilling victory late on. The game went deep into injury time and for almost half an hour play, Northampton led by no more than a point. James Downey who gave them that narrow lead would have thought that with 80 minutes played he had done the job for Saints but O'Gara dropped a goal in the 83rd minute to seal a sensational victory at Thomond Park.


The game was full of excitement early on as the first try came just 2 minutes in. Varley went over for Munster and O'Gara added the conversion. Ashton replied for the Saints not long after and scored a try of his own. Lamb converted and added two penalties goals following the try meaning Northampton led 13-7 with 20 minutes on the clock.

An O'Gara penalty and a try from Howlett gave Munster the lead in the last minute of the first half meaning the home side went into the break leading 17-13.

Consistent kicker, O'Gara, opened the second half with another penalty making Munster's tally 20 points. Lamb replied four minutes later with a penalty that made the game all to play for. James Downey gave Northampton a narrow lead on the 56th but Ryan Lamb couldn't hold his nerve and fluffed the conversion.

An array subs from both sides meant the sides were revitalised with some fresh legs on the pitch.

O'Gara scored the crucial drop goal after 83 minutes to seal a nail-biting victory for Munster at Thomond Park.

Details:
HT Score: 17-13
FT Score: 23-21