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Rugby

Rassie Erasmus explains Munster's winning philosophy

Munster's director of rugby Rassie Erasmus says that getting his team to buy in to a winning phil...



Rassie Erasmus explains Munste...
Rugby

Rassie Erasmus explains Munster's winning philosophy

Munster's director of rugby Rassie Erasmus says that getting his team to buy in to a winning philosophy has led to the Irish province embarking on a remarkable run both domestically and in Europe. 

Munster have won 14 of their last 15 games in all competitions and showed their winning mentality to come from 17-3 down against the Ospreys last weekend to beat them in 25-23 in Wales.

Erasmus explained this week that the players' response comes their leadership on the field and in training.

"From the coaching side, we have to create an environment where that can happen and create a game-plan or philosophy that the players buy in to," he said. "They take their chances and they can take control of the whole thing.

"If we tell them to play a set way from the coaches side, you won't get a lot of buy-in and you won't get leaders standing up. The challenge we're getting to is buy into a philosophy and then take control of it. If you're just telling them what to you won't win a lot of matches."

Munster sit atop the Guinness PRO12 table, three points clear of provincial rivals Leinster and 30 clear of champions Connacht who wallow in 8th position.

 Munster defence coach, Jacques Nienaber, with director of rugby, Rassie Erasmus. Image: ©INPHO/Morgan Treacy

The focus turns once again to maintain their good form the championship, with games against Cardiff Blues and Glasgow Warriors on the horizon.

Preparation has been boosted by the fact that Munster has been able to keep fit both Ian Keatley and Tyler Bleyendaal.

"We're pleased to have two guys fit in the number 10 position... On a personal level, I'm very happy for Tyler because this season has been an emotional roller coaster with that injury and he's had a couple of set-backs.

"Now he's fully ready to take part. He's relaxed when he trains and also he's got a good eye for the game which is wonderful."

Ahead of their game with Scarlets, he said: "This weekend we know what mindset they will be in. They'll be in war mindset and we'll be playing them away. It's going to be a very, very tough match."

Munster welcome the Welsh side to Thomond Park this Friday night at 7.35pm.

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