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Scarlets end Munster's winning run, Leinster go top
By Alex Fisher
Munster's nine-game Pro12 winning streak came to an abrupt halt at Thomond Park as Scarlets produced a stunning second-half display that sees the Irish province relinquish top spot.
A 10th straight league win looked on the cards after an impressive opening half from Munster saw them take a 21-6 lead into half-time.
However, they failed to add to their tally in the second period as Scarlets dominated, Hadleigh Parkes, Johnny McNicholl and Tom Williams running in tries as they delivered a huge shock, the Welsh side running out 30-21 winners.
The victory strengthens their grip on a top-four place, while also allowing Leinster to take full advantage and climb to the summit.
Hugely disappointing result in front of our home support. #MUNvSCA A quiet dressing room now but we will regroup & get back at it on Monday
— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) February 24, 2017
While Munster were suffering their first league loss since October, their rivals Leinster were cruising to victory at Rodney Parade.
They ran in eight tries to earn a 54-22 bonus-point win over Newport Gwent Dragons, Jack Conan and Luke McGrath both crossing twice in a win with huge consequences.
Leinster now have a two-point cushion over Munster after 16 matches, while Ospreys could drop the latter down to third with victory over Glasgow Warriors on Sunday.
Meanwhile, Edinburgh suffered a narrow defeat against Cardiff Blues, the Welsh side snatching an 18-17 win thanks to a late Lloyd Williams try.
It was tough on the Scottish side who had battled well throughout and had led going into the final 10 minutes, but Williams ensured a win for Cardiff - cementing their grip on seventh place.
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Latest Comments
How about a SH type of Champions Cup? I'm not going to repeat the whole response here, but did write what I think would be good. Not only for NZ, but all of the SH. I would however love to hear your thoughts on such a competition
Go to commentsCan’t really complain about those scores. Individually, too many were off their best and went missing in big, match defining moments. Collectively, the team often looked muddled and lacked cool-headed, leadership especially in the final quarter of games. This was further compounded by a quality drop-off from the bench.
Calls for Borthwick’s dismissal have grown increasingly louder with each passing game as he has been shown to be tactically and selectively subpar. His position is now in the balance and I don’t believe he’ll be kept on unless England fix their defensive issues and beat at least one of Ireland, France or Scotland in the 6Ns, which on the latest showing looks increasingly unlikely.
Couple of returning players in Chessum and Mitchell coupled with a stronger bench, might give England fans a few reasons to remain optimistic.
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