Munster Rugby v Cell C Sharks Match Programme

WELCOME BACK
Today is a fantastic occasion
as we welcome our supporters
back home.
We have all come through an
unprecedented time together,
overcome challenges, and are
now thankfully well on our way
to better times.
With the absence of live sport for so long it was
plain to see what it means to us all – more than the
positive impact on health and wellbeing, rugby is
our outlet, our passion, our sense of community,
and our identity.
We are delighted to see our Domestic Rugby
season underway with clubhouses, schools and
pitches across the province filled with players,
coaches, volunteers, and supporters, the
breeding ground and lifeline of Munster Rugby.
Today marks a special day with thousands of
supporters returning to Thomond Park for the
first time since February 2020. We hope everyone
has a wonderful time and enjoys the sense of
occasion as we gather once again to get behind
Johann van Graan and team.
Thank you as ever for your support and
commitment to the province, we look forward to
welcoming you to Thomond Park and Musgrave
Park throughout the season.
Ian Flanagan
Chief Executive Officer
Munster Rugby
We welcome Sean Everitt and all
from Cell C Sharks to Thomond
Park this evening for the first game
of the exciting new United Rugby
Championship series.
Tonight will be another special
night in Thomond Park as we see
the return of supporters for the first time in over 18
months. To hear the Munster roar once again as
the team run out of the tunnel will be a welcome
change. For some of our players this will be the first
time to experience this, but some things are worth
waiting for.
On behalf of all the Munster family I would like to
wish Johann, his coaching team and all the squad
the very best of luck tonight and into season ahead.
Our domestic game is finally back up and
running. Early season competitions have
already commenced which is welcome news for
supporters and players alike. To all clubs, schools,
players, volunteers and all involved in every aspect
and level of the game, the very best of luck as we
continue where we left off and into the new season
ahead.
Congratulations to our Women’s team as they lifted
the Vodafone Interprovincial trophy. Matt Brown’s
side captained by Sarah Quin came out 19-7
winners in the decider against Leinster in what was
a highly entertaining and competitive game.
Our thanks to all of our sponsors for their continued
and loyal support.
To the brave and faithful, nothing is impossible.
Sean McCullough
President
Munster Branch IRFU
President: Sean McCullough | Vice President: Ger McNamara | Junior Vice President: Michael Carroll
Hon. Secretary: Muiris Mahon| Hon. Treasurer: Tom Kinirons
Chief Executive Officer: Dr. Ian Flanagan | Head Coach: Johann van Graan | Team Manager: Niall O’Donovan
MUNSTER V CELL C SHARKS | 25.09.21 | THOMOND PARK
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