RUGBY FRIENDLY MATCH: Mick Galwey and Jeremy Staunton scored two tries each as Munster got their season off to a winning start with a well deserved 31-10 victory over Bristol at Thomond Park last evening.
Bristol led 5-0 at half-time through a try by Lee West but Munster upped the tempo in the second half with Galwey and Staunton enjoying spectacular outings and replacement winger Kevin O'Riordan adding the other try.
Staunton also kicked three conversions with Brendan Daniel claiming Bristol's second try. Munster used the occasion to play 14 substitures, much to the delight of new coach Alan Gaffney, who savoured a winning start to his reign.
MUNSTER: D Crotty; T Cregan, M Lawlor, J Holland, J Staunton; M Prendergast, P Brennan; J Blaney, R Laffan, DO'Callaghan, M Galwey, P Malone, J Williams (capt), C McMahon.
BRISTOL: L Best: B Daniel, T Luke, M Shaw, P Christophers; S Drahm, P Hodgson; D Crompton, N McCarthy, E Bergamaschi, A Sheridan, G Arthur, C Morgan, R Beattie (capt), M Lipman.
Referee: D Tyndall (Leinster)
MCHUGH ATTACK: Stadium officials have formally apologised to Irish referee Dave McHugh who was attacked and injured by an irate fan during Saturday's Tri-Nations Test between South Africa and New Zealand in Durban.
The apology, also sent to the New Zealand team, expressed "disgust" over the assault by spectator Pieter van Zyl, who ran onto the pitch, wrestled McHugh to the ground and dislocated his shoulder.
Officials said they were "absolutely appalled" by Van Zyl's behaviour. "Whatever the motivation, it was an act of thuggery. The ABSA Stadium Durban is saddened by the thought that this type of hooliganism could be seen as an indictment on South African rugby and South African supporters."
Stadium manager Mornay Loubser said that under a policy of zero tolerance "we will ensure that the law takes its full course".
SA Rugby (Pty) Ltd have launched an investigation.
