Munster put on a defensive clinic at Ellis Park on Saturday, overpowering the Lions and denting their playoff chase.

The defending champions reasserted their claim to the URC title by decisively beating the Lions 33-13.

The visitors racked up points in the first half, with flyhalf Jack Crowley slotting three penalties, No 8 Jack O’Donoghue dotting down, and a penalty try awarded before the break to secure a 23-6 lead.

The visitors were quick to build on their lead in the second half, scoring through winger Shane Daly before battening down the hatches and inviting the Lions to go on the attack.

Robust defence gave way when Lions replacement hooker PJ Botha crashed over in the 62nd minute, but Munster promptly plugged the leaks.

Munster’s persistence was rewarded when replacement No 8 Gavin Coombes crashed over to seal the victory.

The Lions resume their hunt for a URC top-eight finish when they host Cardiff in May.

Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images

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