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Rugby

Keith Earls peaking at the right time for Munster

Munster's victory over Ulster on Saturday guaranteed them a home semi-final in the Guinness PRO12...



Keith Earls peaking at the rig...
Rugby

Keith Earls peaking at the right time for Munster

Munster's victory over Ulster on Saturday guaranteed them a home semi-final in the Guinness PRO12 Championship and they face into their Champions Cup semi-final with Saracens high on confidence.

Despite not having home comforts in the familiar surroundings of Thomond Park, the Irish province will welcome the reigning Champions Cup winners to Dublin's Aviva Stadium and aim to reach their first European final since 2008.

The emotionally charged season looks set to guide Munster to success in some form and their players have responded by producing their best performances at important stages of the season.

Keith Earls is one of those who crossed for a try over the weekend and he admits his performances are peaking at the right time.

"It was my first try for Munster this season and it's been a long time coming," he said at a press conference on Monday.

"It's the best I've felt all season, going into the game, body-wise."

The visit of Saracens this weekend will no doubt test Munster, they currently sit in third domestically, seven points behind leaders Wasps.

"They did the double last year and they've been consistently in semi-finals both in England and Europe. They're definitely going to be at their best."

Keith Earls scores Munster's second try of the game against Ulster last weekend. Image: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

The 29-year-old also commented on the atmosphere around the province, explaining that despite the magnitude of their upcoming games, the team are relaxed.

"It's a semi-final week and it doesn't feel like it. It was the same for the quarter-final, there was no Paulie [O'Connell] going around making sure fellas were on the edge or there was no ROG or Dougie [Howlett].

"I think the way fellas are now, it's all completely relaxed. There's no difference between Zebre or Cardiff or Leinster. It's relaxed now, so I'm sure we'll see that build throughout the week."

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