A POWERFUL display by number eight, Des Clohessy, was crucial as Young Munster won the inaugural Munster Player Development League at Thomond Park yesterday with an exciting 13-8 victory over Dolphin.

Young Munster's greater experience allied to a much stronger pack in which Clohessy was an outstanding figure from start to finish proved decisive. However, Dolphin, who are struggling at the bottom of Division Two of the All-Ireland League, confirmed their recent run of good form with a most spirited display against more experienced opposition.

They refused to be deterred even when out-half Aidan O'Halloran kicked Young Munster into a six point lead in less than ten minutes. Dolphin themselves contested bravely up front mainly through the efforts of Hugh Farrelly and Gordon Donnelly and were rewarded with a penalty by Brendan Keary.

They were in front within two minutes of the restart after a series of rucks created the opportunity for full-back and captain, Barry O'Neill, to enter the attack and race through a gap for a fine try.

Now 8-6 ahead. Dolphin tried to consolidate, but Young Munster didn't allow them to settle. Instead they themselves stormed into the attack and yet another burst by Clohessy led to a try by Ger Earls. which Aidan O'Halloran converted.