Dragons 12
Munster 38
MUNSTER PRODUCED A powerful second half performance to score five tries on their way to five point in tonight’s Pro12 clash against the Dragons in Rodney Parade.
Tries from Robin Copeland, Andrew Smith, Ronan O’Mahony and two from Duncan Casey secured the bonus point victory, with the home side replying through four Rhys Jones penalties.
The fullback’s first of the night gave the home side the lead. However, Robin Copeland forced his way over the line after 17 minutes to give the southern province the lead midway through the half.
The newly-capped Ireland international grounded the ball after a period of sustained pressure from the visitors’ pack with both scrum and line-out.
Ian Keatley made the conversion to open up a four point lead for Anthony Foley’s men, but as the half wore on the hosts warmed to the task.
Jones kicked his second penalty of the night five minutes later to close the gap to one and Munster continued to be put on their heels by a Dragons pack brimming with intent.
Jones then nudged his side into a narrow lead at the half-time break.
Andrew Conway lost to injury before the break, but Munster soon powered their way back in to control with Keatley nudging his side ahead for Casey claimed his first try of the night after 46 minutes.
With the tide successfully turned, JJ Hanrahan showed his abilities as a playmaker to create the game’s third try for Andew Smith before the rout was completed by Casey’s second and O’Mahony in the closing minutes.
Scorers
Dragons
Penalties: R Jones
Munster
Tries: R Copeland, D Casey (2), A Smith, R O’Mahony.
Conv: I keatley (5)
Penalty: I Keatley.
