Champagne Moments – 3 Jan

Again, we would like to thank Shaun Payne for taking time to answer some questions from Supporters. Based upon your experiences when you first arrived at Munster, what advice would you give Doug and his family to help them settle in? I dont think they will have any problem settling in. From my own viewpoint, people were extremely helpful and did all they could to make Michelle and myself welcome and I have no doubt whatsoever that Doug and Monique will experience the same level of friendliness and co-operativeness. Ulster have had the look of a wounded beast about them recently. How concerned are you that we might face a backlash to their recent bad results this Friday? First off Ravenhill is one of the hardest places to get any sort of decent result. Ulster haven’t become a bad side by any stretch of the imagination but when things go against a side it can be very hard to stop that. Now though, they have apponted a new coach, so things are starting to settle down. Players will be out to impress the new man who I understand will be there although the word was he wouldn’t arrive until the end of the month. Make no mistake this will be as tough and as tight as any game this year. The press have been describing Rua as "another flanker" in his performances against Llanelli ever fancy playing in the pack?> No – thank you With Doug Howlett here now does this mean you will resume your role as team manager. Well after the conditions we’ve played in, in some recent games, believe me the answer is yes please. But no really thats a decision that not really down to me solely. I have enjoyed playing and if the management believe thats what best for the squad then so be it. Likewise if they feel I should step aside and resume the manager role thats fine by me. The previous Champagne Moments can be viewed HERE Questions posed by Eamonn Keane Filed by Tony McGrath 030108