Munster fan Craig Casey 'as frustrated as anyone else'

After both good results and bad, there aren't many places where a Munster Rugby player can blend into the crowd around the province.

Still in the early years of his professional career, Craig Casey is already well-versed with the pressure that comes with the Munster jersey.

That pressure has been ramped up in recent weeks after their poor start to the season. Three defeats from four games, the latest a 20-11 loss against Connacht in which the scoreline flattered Munster, has left them swimming against the tide already in this campaign, with title hopes replaced by fears they could miss out on Champions Cup qualification altogether.

In spite of their poor performances and results, the supporters haven't turned on them just yet.

Earlier this week, defence coach Denis Leamy spoke about meeting fans at an Energia All-Ireland League game last weekend, while Casey had a similar encounter at a supermarket trip in recent days.

"I actually met a few Munster fans in Dunnes on Sunday, and in fairness they were upbeat and wishing us well. You can sense their frustration," he says.

The scrum-half says those encounters are perks of the job rather than inconveniences.

Having grown up in the shadows of Thomond Park, and been a mascot at Shannon and Munster games throughout his childhood, Casey doesn't have to look back too far to the days when the shoe was on the other foot.

"I'm a fan, I've been a fan since I was born, so I'm as frustrated as anyone else. The lads in here are more frustrated than anyone.

"I used to love seeing the lads around Limerick, like absolutely love it. So when you do see it you kind of take it, it's humbling to be honest.

"I absolutely love meeting fans, it’s great to get a sense of what they’re feeling and get a taste