Russell rues drop-goal chance against Munster

Munster booked their spot in the Champions Cup quarter-finals with a hugely impressive 14-12 victory over Glasgow at Scotstoun.

The game turned into a penalty-kicking contest between the Pro12 sides with Finn Russell slotting three, and Stuart Hogg one, for Glasgow. Munster’s Tyler Bleyendaal responded with three of his own, but it was a Francis Saili try that secured the win for Rassie Erasmus’ team.

However, in the close of the tie, Glasgow’s Finn Russell had a number of opportunities to win the tie as he sat back in the pocket for a drop goal, but neglected to take the pop at the sticks, a move that Russell said afterwards was a mistake.

“It was an even game out there. They got the break with the try at the end, and that’s the difference between the teams. It was a tough game and good stuff from both teams,” said Russell. “It wasn’t our night tonight.

“I definitely think I should have it (the drop-goal attempt). I sat in the pocket a few times and in hindsight I should have had a go."

Munster's Erasmus meanwhile downplayed his team's chances in the tournament, as the idea is beginning to grow that Munster are very real contenders to take the European crown this year.

"If the players play as hard as they can and that takes us as far as possible, I think we would be stupid to put targets out there,” said Erasmus.

"We are still a fairly new team, a fairly new management team, so it's difficult to gauge where we can go.

"But if we avoid picking up a lot of injuries and keep our form like this, I think we've got a chance of getting somewhere."

Photo: Getty/Mark Runnacles

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