Munster’s Champions Cup hopes hit after Thomond Park defeat to Leicester

Munster are on the verge of exiting the Champions Cup.

The province lost 19-31 to Leicester Tigers at Thomond Park this evening as Ian Keatley had a night to forget. The fly-half missed three kicks and missed a during the build up to one of the away team's tries. Anthony Foley’s side trailed 18-6 at half-time, got within four points of their rivals early in the second period but the fightback was shortlived as the Tigers extended their lead with a try from Ben Youngs. Tommy Bell put the gloss on a deserved win with two penalties.Munster must now win next weekend in the reverse fixture against Leicester. A tough ask. Scorers Munster: Tries, James Cronin, Mike Sherry. Penalties: Ian Keatley x 3. Leicester: Tries: Niki Goneva, Mike Fitzgerald, Ben Youngs Penalties: Owen Williams x 2, Tommy Bell x 2. Conversions: Owen Williams x 2.