Shaun Goosen takes a look at some of the biggest talking points that took place in Round 15.
Image copyright – Steve Haag Sports
Munster cement semi berth
Munster’s 49-12 win over 13-man Connacht at Aviva Stadium on the weekend was enough to see them through to the upcoming semi-finals at the Scarlet’s expense. Johann van Graan’s men delivered a powerful display over the 2015-16 champions in scoring six tries to earn a last four clash with defending champions Leinster – the side that pipped them by just two points a fortnight ago.
Admittedly, the Red Army were helped in large part by red cards shown to Abraham Papali’i and Shane Delahut for two separate cases of dangerous play inside the opening half.
Just not to be for Scarlets
Glenn Delaney has a talented squad at his disposal, chock-full of Welsh internationals, and there remains plenty of room for optimism after such a strange campaign for all. That said, they will arguably be most miffed that the tournament was curtailed.
Season set for epic conclusion
Despite the season having been cut short due to Covid-19, this weekend’s semi-final teams are all deserving of their inclusion in the last four. Leinster have won every game they’ve played and will be tough to stop with their seasoned internationals back and in full flow. They take on arch-rivals Munster on Friday, a side they beat 27-25 just two weeks ago, and who will be aching to knock the men in blue off the perch they seem to have permanently occupied.
Ulster travel to BT Murrayfield to tackle an Edinburgh team who have greatly impressed this term. The Scotsmen, still searching for an elusive first championship title, have only lost four games this season and will be favoured to qualify for the final. For Ulster, the pride of Northern Ireland, an upset could very well be on the cards.
