Munster will head into the Heineken European Cup semi-final against Leinster on Saturday having dethroned their opponents as Magners League champions after Ospreys failed to get a bonus point against the Dragons. With two games remaining, the Welsh side could still make up the 10 point difference but would miss out by virtue of the fact Munster have an unassailable 13 victories.
Munster can now approach the semi-final in Croke Park safe in the knowledge they have already achieved one target for the season and remain on course for the other, retaining their European crown while targeting a league and cup double.
Ospreys, who have 10 wins to their name so far, will meet the champions on the last weekend of the season (April 15th). On the 10th, Munster travel to face the Cardiff Blues and the Ospreys host Glasgow.
Tonight, however, was there chance, and they faltered against an understrength Dragons who boasted just six Wales caps between them.
Ospreys included all six of their British and Irish Lions, with James Hook scoring two tries among his 19 points and Shane Williams also touching down in the 27-18 win.
Former Osprey Shaun Connor kicked all the Dragons’ points from six penalties.
Munster were tonight congratulated by Director of Celtic Rugby David Jordan.
"Congratulations must go to Munster for their success in winning the 2008/09 Magners League title,” he said in a statement.
"They clearly intended to claim the Magners League trophy this season following on from their success in Europe last, and from the outset they have been almost unstoppable, having won 13 of their 16 matches to date.
"Munster's success on the pitch has also been reflected off it and the re-opening of the impressive Thomond Park Stadium has brought capacity crowds to their Magners League games at that venue.
"The esteem in which their players are held has resulted in the selection of such a large contingent of Munster players in the British and Irish Lions touring party named last week.
"The winning of the Magners League title is a splendid achievement and the culmination of a strong and well coached squad throughout the campaign, the presentation of the trophy should prove to be a great occasion for players, backroom staff and fans alike."
