Wallace: Tough challenge
Wallace hails Toulouse's squad strength
By Rebecca Syrocki Last updated: 22nd May 2008
Wallace: Hails Toulouse
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The 'mind-boggling' playing qualities of the Heineken Cup final opponents Toulouse have been hailed by Munster star David Wallace.
If Toulouse beat Wallace and his team in Cardiff on Saturday they will land a fourth European title. With the French side's strength-in-depth, they are a daunting obstacle to tackle.
Even with Munster returning to the Millennium Stadium, where they enjoyed their 2006 Heineken Cup final victory over Biarritz, they still face a tough challenge.
"Toulouse are a great side and a huge challenge for any team," acknowledged Wallace.
"They epitomise all the best things of French rugby. Regardless of who plays, they have a potent back three and a great pack of forwards.
Fantastic
"Their main strength is their fantastic squad depth which, to put it mildly, is simply mind-boggling. They regularly have several guys on their bench who would walk into most other teams in Europe."
Yet Ireland flanker Wallace believes Munster still has a chance. He added: "We used to struggle a bit in that department at Munster, but now we also have solid strength in depth, and thankfully, very few injury worries at the moment.
"We will have to play out of our skins to beat them on Saturday."
Wallace provides invaluable experience within the team having played in all three of Munster's previous Heineken Cup finals against Northampton, Leicester and Biarritz.
Both teams topped their respective groups in the punishing pool stage programmes despite both suffering two defeats.
Having guided Munster into each of their European finals Declan Kidney is now departing and will take over from Eddie O'Sullivan as Ireland coach later this summer.
Wallace added: "Last time Declan left us back in 2002 it was on a losing note, so it would be brilliant for him to go with a win.
"He has led us to all the finals, and it would be great to give him another trophy."
| Time | Result |
|---|---|
| Heineken Cup | |
| Saturday 24th May | |
| Munster 16 - 13 Toulouse | |
Heineken Cup Top 6
| Pos | Team | P | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cardiff Blues | 6 | 20 |
| 2 | Stade Francais | 6 | 18 |
| 3 | Bristol | 6 | 12 |
| 4 | NEC Harlequins | 6 | 2 |
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Comments
Joe Kiely says...
Regardless of the opposition Paddy go ouyt and enjoy yourself what will be will be one things for sure you will be well supported by us either way go on munster
Posted 15:59 22nd May 2008
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