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Rassie Erasmus' perspective on a poor start for the South African Pro14 sides

Munster won't be making their first Guinness Pro 14 away trip to South Africa until next Spring. ...



Rassie Erasmus' perspectiv...
Rugby

Rassie Erasmus' perspective on a poor start for the South African Pro14 sides

Munster won't be making their first Guinness Pro 14 away trip to South Africa until next Spring.

But on Saturday they got their first taste of league action against South African opponents when Cheetahs came to Thomond Park.

Ultimately, it ended up being a resounding victory for the home side in Round 2 of the Pro 14 as Munster ran out 51-18 winners with Alex Wootton managing a quarter of tries, while Simon Zebo and Tommy O'Donnell were also among the other try scorers.

Speaking to our own Oisin Langan, Munster director of rugby Rassie Erasmus gave his take on the poor start from the two South African additions to the competition.

"I think we must give it six or seven weeks to see are they settling into the competition," said the South African who will make his Munster exit soon, before touching on the logistical challenges for the Cheetahs and Southern Kings.

Toyota Cheetah’s team leave the pitch after the match ©INPHO/Billy Stickland

"It's simple, small, little things like they wouldn't now even be at home yet. They would have left here and they would get home Monday evening at 4 or 5 o'clock. And then they would play a game Saturday as well.

"So there will be travel logistics, those kind of things and the referee interpretations, small, little things that get you out of your comfort zone. I think they'll settle well. I think the Kings have got more of a challenge. They're not a really settled team. They're only started building but through the season they will get better.

"But I think the Cheetahs will hit their straps quicker than people think." 

While Cheetahs lost to Munster, the other clash between Irish and South African teams went the way of the Irish province as Connacht won 32-10 at home to Southern Kings at the Sportsground on Saturday. 

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