Munster's result and performance to Stade Francais last weekend was so harrowing that steps were taken immediately to try and rectify what's going on.
Enter Andy Farell. The newly appointed Ireland defence coach was swiftly drafted in as a consultant to Anthony Foley's backroom staff to help turn the tide. Munster's form, and in particular the shambolic display in Paris, means that Farrell's input is welcome - but one Munster legend isn't sure it's going to work.
Not because Farrell isn't good, but because the set-up won't be conducive to success. According to Ronan O'Gara, himself in charge of the defence at Racing 92, Andy Farrell is going to need much more than the two days a week being reported to make his mark on the Munster team:
I’m not really sure what bringing Andy Farrell in two days a week — if accurately reported —- is going to achieve for Munster.
See Also: Brian O'Driscoll Explains Why Andy Farrell Is A Good Appointment
We know that it takes time for a coach's influence to be felt on a team, and that's when players see their coaches every day. A two-day a week stint for Farrell, according to O'Gara, will be "one day readjusting, one day progress" - which in O'Gara's experience isn't enough. The Munster legend says that it's only after two years at Racing that they've been able to see a change, and that Munster and their fans should strap themselves in for more short-term disappointment.
It's interesting to note though, that O'Gara seems to believe that the fault lies at players not performing, instead of Anthony Foley or any of the backroom team:
For sure now, there’s going to be more short-term pain in Munster. The brutal reality of professional sport is that if you have under-performing players in pivotal positions, you are going to suffer.
A strong Munster line-up will be looking to redeem themselves on Saturday when they host Stade Francais.
[Irish Examiner]
See Also: Alan Quinlan Hit The Nail On The Head With His Comments After 'Embarrassing' Munster Loss
Picture credit: Matt Browne / SPORTSFILE
