Munster Secures Narrow Home Win Over Cardiff in URC Round Two Clash

Munster secured a narrow 23-20 victory over Cardiff at Thomond Park in the United Rugby Championship (URC), marking head coach Clayton McMillan's first home competitive win. The match was characterized by challenging weather conditions and a scrappy play, with Munster's Jack Crowley playing a decisive role through penalty and drop-goal kicks that ultimately clinched the game. Cardiff started strong with a try by Josh Adams, but Munster responded with tries from Roughan Quinn, Gavin Coombes, and Diarmuid Barron, despite Cardiff's persistent fight and a late hat-trick try by Tom Bowen. The game was marked by disciplinary incidents, including a Cardiff player sin-binned, which Munster capitalized on to maintain their lead. Cardiff has struggled with away games historically, having not won at Thomond Park in 11 attempts, but aimed to bring the same physicality and fight they showed in a previous victory against Munster. Both teams showed moments of excellence, but Munster's pack and bench energy were crucial in securing the win under tough conditions.