Zebre 12
Munster 16
ANTHONY FOLEY’S MUNSTER boost their Pro12 playoff hopes after grinding out a four-point victory over Zebre at the Stadio Sergio Lanfranchi.
Mark Chisholm’s first-half try was ultimately the difference as the southern province made it three successive wins in all competitions.
The visitors led 13-12 at the break after two Ian Keatley penalties had supplemented Chisholm’s score.
The Italian side remained in touch through Kelly Haimona’s boot but Keatley landed a second-half drop-goal to extend Munster’s advantage and they held on to leave with the points in the bag.
Conditions were far from ideal with a thick fog hanging over the ground but Munster started brightly and were rewarded with an early score.
A powerful rolling maul provided the momentum and Chisholm forced his way over with Keatley adding the extras.
The hosts got themselves on the board shortly after and found themselves in the lead as Haimona dissected the posts on three occasions.
The sides exchanged penalties and it was Munster who went into the interval with the narrowest of advantages but the balance swung back in Zebre’s favour when substitute Dave O’Callaghan was sent to the bin for a high-tackle.
However, the Italians were unable to take advantage as Munster stood firm and Keatley gave the guests some breathing space with a drop-goal with eight minutes remaining.
