Ian Costello delighted as 'calm' Munster come out on top against Saracens

Ian Costello hailed Munster's composure as they held off Saracens in an old-school arm-wrestle at Thomond Park.

The province were 17-12 winners in a scrappy but crucial Investec Champions Cup win over the Premiership side, which leaves them within reach of a home tie in the last 16 of the competition.

Fourteen of Munster’s 17-point haul came in a five-minute spell around the hour mark, as Dian Bleuler and John Hodnett both crossed for tries, converted by Jack Crowley who had earlier laded a penalty.

For much of the first hour, it had been an error-strewn display by the home side, who struggled with their handling, and their opponents’ kicking game.

But Costello was thrilled at how his side never panicked, as they secured their second win from three in the pool.

"We went 6-0 down, we were disappointed with two poor penalties, but the lads stayed really calm," the Munster interim coach said.

FULL TIME: Munster 17-12 Saracens

"A proper Munster game that." - POTM Tadhg Beirne