Luke They might be second in the Guinness PRO14 standings but Munster know things could be going much, much better in Conference A.
The Irish province are now 15 points adrift of Glasgow Warriors, who sit top of the tree with an impressive 11 wins from 12 games.
Johann van Graan’s side take on Irish rivals Connacht this weekend and with nine games to go, we take a look at how Munster can reel in the Warriors.
CONSISTENCY
The Red Army have taken 38 points from their opening 12 matches of the season, enough to keep them clear of the Toyota Cheetahs in third but far adrift of the Scottish outfit.
Three victories in a row is the longest winning streak Munster have cobbled together this campaign – something the Reds must address if they are to top the conference come May.
And after letting a 17-0 half time lead slip against Ulster on New Year’s Day – Munster will require a remarkable winning run to hunt down Dave Rennie’s men.
BEATING THE BEST
Getting one over your rivals often makes or breaks a season and Munster’s record against their biggest challengers for the trophy has been poor.
The Warriors overpowered the Irish side in September, running in four tries as the Scoutstoun outfit began to pull ahead in the standings.
And two defeats to bitter rivals Leinster raised further questions about Munster’s capability of winning the league for the first time since 2011.
BIG GUNS FIRING
Simon Zebo might be departing at the end of the season after spending his entire career at the Irish province but Munster will need the wing to be at the top of his game if they are get back into the title hunt.
Alex Wootton is enjoying a superb campaign at Thomond Park with seven league tries to his name, the joint second highest across the division.
The 23-year-old also has 98 carries, 12 clean breaks and has beaten 36 defenders, the best of any Munster player.
There’s no doubt Munster have missed the influence of Tyler Bleyendaal, who hasn’t played since October due to a neck injury.
But if they can get the Kiwi fit and firing, Munster could make a late surge towards the Warriors at the top of the Conference A standings.
