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The Counter Ruck

Leinster vs Munster- the history of a bitter rivalry

Gordon D’Arcy remembers his first interpro game for Leinster against Munster for all the wrong reasons. As an 18-year-old, he was mercilessly stepped by Keith Wood before he got on the wrong end of Peter Clohessy at the bottom of a ruck. In the years after, Leinster and Munster have enjoyed many a memorable battle.


Alongside host Nathan Johns and Irish Times rugby writer John O’Sullivan, D’Arcy charts the history of this provincial rivalry through the professional era.


We also chat through which players have impressed so far on the Emerging Ireland tour while recapping Ireland women’s defeat to Canada.

Produced by John Casey.


Have a question for the panel? Get in touch at rugbypod@irishtimes.com


Clip: Leinster v Munster, 2001 Celtic Cup Final, Gordon’s try at 5.29”.

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