Ulster V Munster (22-6) 25th October 2008
A determined display by Ulster gives Munster a disappointing day in Ravenhill.

What is the feeling like in the Munster camp?

Obviously we are very disappointed to lose our unbeaten record. Ulster was just the better side. Our execution was off, and many aspects of the game let us down. Our defence is normally a lot more sound but there is always a difficulty keeping continuity when you make that many changes to the team.

Do you normally travel with the team when you are not named on the squad?

I was supposed to have a week off but Frankie Sheehan had a neck injury so I was on the bench, but normally you don’t travel if you are not in the squad.

When you’re on the bench watching that kind of game do you just want to get on and play?

Obviously everyone wants to play but you have to respect the coach’s decisions. They have a squad and they need to make sure that everyone gets enough game-time so they are ready when they’re needed.

When does the Irish squad get together?

We will meet up tonight (Monday 27th) 10.00pm. Stay in a hotel in Limerick together for the week.

Is it difficult in Camp situations?

It is difficult when you are together 24/7 and you can’t be “on” all the time. Declan Kidney is very good at facilitating time for “switching off”. It, is good to spend a week in a camp situation you get much more focused. International sides obviously don’t spend as much time together as provincial sides so it’s useful pre-match preparation.

Jerry Flannery in conversation with USN