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URC team of the week: Munster and Stormers dominate selection

Updated / Monday, 15 May 2023 20:04
Jack Crowley scored the winning points against Leinster
Jack Crowley scored the winning points against Leinster

We're down to just two teams after Munster shocked Leinster in Dublin and DHL Stormers saw their way past Connacht in Cape Town.

It means another trip to South Africa for Graham Rowntree's resurgent charges in the BKT URC final in two weeks' time.

Here's our semi-finals team of the week.

15. Damian Willemse (Stormers)

Made six successful carries, offloaded four times, beat six defenders over 116 metres with ball in hand and Connacht struggled to deal with him all day.

14. Angelo Davids (Stormers)

The wing made three clean breaks and scored the opening try in their semi-final win. A constant threat.

13. Tom Farrell (Connacht)

His line break led to Connacht's second try and he was clever in possession, usually taking the right option. The centre had two offloads and beat six defenders, while also coming up with a turnover.

12. Jack Crowley (Munster)

Came up with the big play at the crucial moment, dropping the goal that got Munster past Leinster. Was key to Munster’s tempo after exit of Ben Healy, who started at out-half, and picked up the player of the match award.

11. Shane Daly (Munster)

Did his Ireland hopes no harm as he racked up five offloads and worked incredibly hard on and off the ball. Unsung key man for Munster. Mack Hansen also stood out for Connacht.

10. Manie Libbok (Stormers)

Scored two first-half tries and kicked 13 points as the champions held off a spirited Connacht performance. On form, the Springboks out-half is hard to play.

9. Herschel Jantjies (Stormers)

Another accomplished showing from the South Africa half-back, who works incredibly well alongside Libbok. Honourable mention for Craig Casey.

1. Steven Kitshoff (Stormers)

Always a threat at the breakdown, two turnovers, and fearsome ball-carrier as well. Appeared to be at the heart of all their forward play. Completed 17/17 tackles.

2. Dave Heffernan (Connacht)

Very prominent in the loose again, and part of a solid set-piece operation.

3. Stephen Archer (Munster)

Didn’t take a step back in a 51-minute shift and comfortably controlled his side of the scrum. Huge work-rate.

4. Ryan Baird (Leinster)

Unlucky to have a try chalked off and did well in the lineout and at close quarters.

5. Tadhg Beirne (Munster)

Came up with three vital turnovers and once again showed his importance. Scored Munster's only try. Adds an extra dimension to whatever team he plays in.

6. Josh van der Flier (Leinster)

An early replacement for the injured Will Connors, the world player of the year made 27 tackles and won three turnovers. Has established a high ceiling and reaches it with impressive ease. Another fine performance by Max Deegan, too.

7. Hacjivah Dayimani (Stormers)

Lively outing that included two try assists for the wing forward, including the score that killed off the game.

8. Gavin Coombes (Munster)

Beat three defenders and in the thick of the action on both sides. Only testament to the strength of the Irish back row that he can’t get a look in, yet.


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