Head coach Graham Rowntree remains steadfast in his belief that Munster’s rivalry with Leinster is undergoing a significant shift, despite their recent loss in Dublin.

The high-stakes clash saw Munster surge ahead 10-0 with Craig Casey’s try and Jack Crowley’s penalty, but Leinster clawed their way back, notching three crucial tries through Jamison Gibson-Park, Dan Sheehan, and Jordan Larmour, ultimately securing a hard-fought 21-16 victory.

Reflecting on the match, Rowntree emphasized the pivotal changes within the rivalry, highlighting Munster’s ability to challenge even Leinster’s strongest lineup. “We proved that in May,” he stated, referencing their stunning upset in last season’s United Rugby Championship semi-finals. “We could have beaten them. A lot of that is within our control.”

Amid the battle of Irish rugby’s titans, Rowntree commended both sides for delivering a captivating spectacle, acknowledging areas for improvement while lauding the performance: “It was not perfect, but it was a testament to Irish rugby and the URC as these giants clashed for 80 minutes.”

Analyzing the game, Rowntree pinpointed crucial moments where Munster could have altered the course, emphasizing the importance of composure near the opposition’s try line. Despite the defeat, he expressed immense pride in their performance and the strides made during the match.

On the other side, Leinster’s coach, Leo Cullen, praised his team’s defensive resilience and acknowledged missed opportunities in converting chances, underscoring the tight contest that ensued.

The result positions Leinster atop the URC table with a strong record, while Munster, despite their second defeat of the season, look to regroup ahead of their upcoming clash against Glasgow.

Rowntree and Munster remain determined, seeing promising signs amid the evolving dynamics of this intense rugby rivalry, signaling a new chapter in their battle against Leinster.