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SUNDAY'S WELL: 26, YOUNG MUNSTER: 26

ERIC CROTTY emerged as the hero for Sunday's Well as the second division side snatched a last gasp draw in Saturday's intense…

Mon May 05 1997 - 01:00

ERIC CROTTY emerged as the hero for Sunday's Well as the second division side snatched a last gasp draw in Saturday's intense Carling Munster Senior Cup semi-final at Musgrave Park. The roars of approval were heard a mile away as Crotty calmly stroked over an 81st minute drop goal to force first division Young Munster into a replay in Limerick tomorrow evening. (7.00)

In a sense, it was a result neither side wanted but, equally, neither complained about the outcome either.

And so they shouldn't. While Young Munster led for much of this absorbing tussle, Sunday's Well deserved another bite of the cherry. It has not been a particularly enjoyable season for either of these clubs as they struggled in their respective divisions, but the sights they have set on acquiring the much prized Munster Cup has sustained them.

That was obvious from the very first minute of Saturday's match. Young Munster started strongly, finished the half without so much as a whimper, started the second half in much the same mood but did exceptionally well to keep Sunday's Well on the back foot for almost 30 minutes - against the wind.

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They lost the initiative, regained it and, just when they seemed like holding on, they capitulated to allow the Cork side a share of the spoils.

There were good and bad spells and mistakes in abundance as the rains fell. Yet, none of the spectators were complaining. Talking points, yes, but no real complaints after a very good game of rugby.

Young Munster led 17-10 at the interval with tries from Mike Lynch and Peter Boland, two conversions and a drop goal from Aidan O'Halloran to a try from Declan Coppinger, a penalty and conversion from Conor Burke.

Burke made and converted the opening try of the second half by captain Jim Cutriss and the outcome was in doubt from there on.

Lynch kicked a penalty and Crotty responded with a drop goal before Burke kicked a Sunday's Well penalty to make it 23-20. O'Halloran and Lynch kicked penalties to turn the game around again but Crotty found the target with his dramatic last minute drop goal.