Aironi 21 Munster 17:David Wallace made his long awaited comeback from a serious knee injury but was unable to prevent Heineken Cup quarter-finalists Munster suffering a shock defeat against PRO12 strugglers Aironi in Italy this afternoon.

Despite finishing strongly, Tony McGahan’s side never recovered from a 15-3 interval deficit and Aironi turned league form on its head as they sent second-placed Munster crashing. It was only the home side’s fourth victory of the season, but one they deserved after first-half tries by flanker Nicola Cattina and centre Gabriel Pizarro underpinned a comfortable advantage.

Munster, who were without their sizeable Six Nations contingent, managed only a Scott Deasy penalty in reply as Aironi made the most of their attacking opportunities. Wallace was introduced 16 minutes into the second half and Munster eventually stirred in the final quarter, collecting a penalty try and touchdown from centre Lifeimi Mafi, yet it was a case of too little, too late.