RaboDirect: Winning return for Paul O’Connell

Having lined out for Munster ‘A’ and club side Young Munster in recent weeks, O’Connell stepped up to senior level for the first time since having surgery to correct a bulging disc in his back.

The big lock, eager to be part of Warren Gatland’s Lions plans, enjoyed an energetic first appearance for Munster since October. Both he and Damien Varley touched down in the opening 14 minutes at Musgrave Park, with a Ronan O’Gara penalty making it 15-0 at the break.

But although Varley doubled his try tally in the second half, Rob Penney’s men failed to secure a bonus point.

Dan Parks was unable to exert much influence and Connacht, who had won their previous three league games, never threatened Munster’s lead.

Meanwhile, Alberto di Bernardo made all the difference as his kicking condemned Cardiff Blues to a 26-17 defeat at Benetton Treviso.

Di Bernardo kicked four penalties and converted an early try from Alessandro Zanni, but also missed further kicks which would have made his side’s victory more emphatic.