The Munstermen have won their last two encounters, against Edinburgh in the Heineken Cup and Zebres in the PRO12, however, away from home the Irish province have lost their last four games since their visit to Edinburgh on the opening weekend of the PRO12.
The Blues don’t have the best of records against Munster, having lost their last four encounters, but Munster have only been victorious at the Arms Park in this tournament once before: 18-16 on 4 November 2005.
Speaking ahead of the match, Cardiff Blues Director of Rugby, Phil Davies said,
“It was clear for all to see that last weekend’s game against Leinster wasn’t a very positive night for us.
“We all knew when we started in June that it would be a massive challenge.
“Looking at the game we have ahead of us, Munster, regardless of what fifteen they put on the pitch they are going to be hard and uncompromising up-front.
“I suspect that they will have BJ Botha and Marcus Horan in the front row, who are both extremely experienced players.
“Casey Laulala, is always a threat and is likely to start, but we are looking forward to facing him on our home ground.
“Both sides have got a new coaching group who are trying to develop and change.
“Supporters can look forward to a very competitive match, as it always is against Munster.”
The game is sure to be a great way for families to round off the half term, with plenty of pre match entertainment. The Heineken Fan Zone will have live music, player signings and have a Halloween theme!
Cardiff Blues are encouraging children to come in fancy dress and to collect a treat in the Fan Zone, which opens two hours before kick off and remains open for an hour after final whistle.
Tickets can be purchased from the Ticket Office on 029 2030 2030 or online atwww.cardiffblues.com/tickets or in person at Cardiff Arms Park.
Please note that when purchasing over the phone or online booking fees apply.
Cardiff Blues 15. Dan Fish 14. Tom Williams 13. Gavin Evans 12. Dafydd Hewitt 11. Tom James 10. Jason Tovey 9. Lewis Jones
8. Andries Pretorius (c) 7. Josh Navidi 6. Robin Copeland 5. James Down 4. Lou Reed 3. Taufa’ao Filise 2. Rhys Williams 1. Campese Ma’afu
16. Andi Kyriacou 17. Sam Hobbs 18. Ryan Harford 19. Macauley Cook 20. Luke Hamilton 21. Rob Lewis 22. Ceri Sweeney 23. Owen Williams
Not available for selection:
Wales Squad
Harry Robinson
Leigh Halfpenny
Jamie Roberts
Alex Cuthbert
Lloyd Williams
Sam Warburton
Bradley Davies
Scott Andrews
Benoit Bourrust – calf – mid November
Jake Cooper-Woolley: ACL reconstruction expected return in April
Chris Czekaj - foot - expected return December/January
Michael Paterson - recovering from shoulder injury – available for LV matches
Rhys Patchell- shoulder injury - available for LV matches
Tom Davies – ACL reconstruction 1 week ago - expected return 6 months
Rory Watts-Jones - MCL injury - expected return 4-6 weeks
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