Magners League: O’Connell returns as Munster defeat Cardiff

Munster 16-9 Cardiff Blues

Paul O’Connell made his first appearance of the season as Munster recorded a seven-point victory over Cardiff Blues in difficult conditions at Thomond Park.

The former Lions captain was introduced to a rapturous reception after 55 minutes of a competitive Magners League encounter, which went the way of the home side thanks to a spirited second half display.

With heavy fog making conditions difficult for the players, Munster could only manage a single score in the first half, a Ronan O’Gara penalty after 39 minutes after Dan Parks had put Cardiff ahead with two penalty kicks earlier in the half.

Tony McGahan’s side stepped it up after the break and after a series of phases in the Cardiff 22’, Alan Quinlan touched down eight minutes after the break to give Munster a lead they wouldn’t relinquish for the rest of the game.

O’Gara converted Quinlan’s try and added two more penalties before the end, with Cardiff only managing a single Parks penalty in response. The victory sees Munster retain their place at the top of the Magners League table ahead of back to back Heineken Cup clashes with the Ospreys in the next fortnight.