Munster will be better prepared for Toulouse challenge - Johann van Graan

Munster head coach Johann van Graan
Munster head coach Johann van Graan
©Steve Haag

Munster Rugby head coach Johann van Graan believes his side will be better equipped to face Toulouse when the two teams lock horns with each other in the quarter-finals of the Heineken Champions Cup at Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

The two teams last faced each other in last season's round of 16 knock out clash during which Toulouse riding on a double from Antonie Dupont managed to overcome tries from Keith Earls and Gavin Coombes sealed a 40-33 win with the French club eventually going on to claim the title.

Nevertheless, van Graan feels confident of the Irish province's chances this time around.

“We’ve good continuity in our team, we’ve been together now for a number of games after the Six Nations, so some good continuity in our team," he said.

"We’re another year together, and from a development point of view, a lot of guys have gained a lot of experience.

“It’s the second time in a year we’ll play Toulouse, and a lot of guys have got more experience in our journey as a group.

"We’d like to believe we’re in a better spot a year on, but every game is different.

"It’s a new challenge, a new venue, different teams, new referee and it’ll certainly be a challenge on Saturday afternoon.”

The game will also be the 19th quarter-final in the Heineken Champions Cup between the two clubs which is the most for any teams.

 
 
 
 

European Rugby Champions Cup Points Table