Gloucester Rugby had a tough day at the office when they took on Munster Rugby in the Heineken Champions Cup at Kingsholm last Friday, Ollie Thorley’s second-half try one of the highlights and enough to see him win the 1873 Club Outstanding Moment.

Following the game Ollie came into the Abbey Business Lounge alongside team mates Ben Vellacott and Henry Walker, and took part in the post-match Q&A for 1873 Club Members, hosted by former Gloucester back row forward Simon Devereux.

Ollie was then presented with the award by Devs, who provided the following summary of the game:

“Gloucester Rugby came up against a clinical Munster side who demonstrated a first class defensive effort, disrupting much of Gloucester’s attacking play. For the third match running Gloucester’s skill levels, especially in the first half, were not at the levels seen previously. They struggled to maintain field position and generate any momentum as a result.

“Gloucester Rugby started well to work a good attacking lineout position but were unable to execute and turned over possession. Munster’s lineout defence was disruptive on several occasions, preventing Gloucester Rugby from getting their driving lineout going. This led to inaccuracies and hesitancy causing Gloucester Rugby to lose several good attacking lineout positions.

“Gloucester Rugby also struggled to deal with Munster’s box kicking which forced a number of errors compounding the situation. The scrum was under pressure for large parts and the high error count throughout meant Munster, who showed quality and composure, were able to open up a 3-20 half time lead and control the match.

“A big start was needed to the second half and Gloucester Rugby showed character and quality to retain possession through 35 phases close to the Munster line. Munster’s defence was tenacious during this period and Gloucester Rugby expelled a huge amount of effort to eventually score.

“By contrast, Munster were able to cancel out both Gloucester Rugby tries with relative ease which highlighted the difference in quality, experience and execution between the two sides on the night.

“Munster were aggressive up front and impressively clinical in attack but Gloucester Rugby’s high error count handed them the momentum in the first half. There was a huge amount of effort from Gloucester Rugby and glimpses of the quality which has positioned them fourth in the Premiership.

“However, they struggled to adapt to the pressure Munster applied which took its toll on Gloucester Rugby. Whilst it was an impressive effort from Munster, Gloucester Rugby will know they need to get back to the early season skill and energy levels before meeting Exeter and Saracens at Kingsholm in February, when the Premiership resumes.”

Ollie Thorley wins the 1873 Club Outstanding Moment at the Munster Rugby game

Related News