Men against (lady) Boys yet again...
In sport, when your team has given every ounce of effort in a failed attempt at beating superior opposition, your disapointment and the odd tear is offset by pride that they have done themselves and their supporters proud. There is no disgrace in losing to a better team when you've given all you can.
So don't pity the fine Munstermen and their supporters at another failed attempt in Rugby's European cup. With all their injuries and a difficult away draw, they provided valiant opposition to Biarritz yesterday. OK they lost, but as usual they fought above their weight and went done after giving it their all.
Save your pity for those unfortunate enough by birth who have to follow the Leinster team. If ever a team lived up to a stereotype, it is they. There is no disgrace in losing to a team such as Leicester. They have an unparalleld history in this competition and probably are only eclipsed by Munster in terms of their travelling support.
However, to watch a Leinster team once again, go quietly into the night is sickening. I am a long suffering Leinster supporter and occasional season ticket holder. I go to practically every home match be it Europe or the Celtic league and their cowardice never ceases to amaze me. To see them bow down before Leicester on Saturday evening was a disgrace. You could never imagine Munster putting forward such a meek performance at home.
I will accept that some of Declan Kidney's selection decisions were wrong, but still you have to wonder do Leinster's forwards have no self respect. It's time to clear out the underachievers and to select young men who want to play for their province, who want to give 100%. The days of Leinster lying down must be brought to an end.
Contrast these "professionals" with the men from Leicester and Munster and you will find a different breed. The last time a Leinster pack actually stood up to the opposition was the first Celtic League final against Munster. Since that time they have failed to justify their salaries or selection.
I don't mind losing as long as my team goes down with a fight. The days of the predctable Leinster surrender must come to an end.
posted by Tom Murphy @ 9:03 AM
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