Munster go top of Conference A as Treviso shock Warriors

Benetton Treviso continued their superb recent form in the Pro14 by handing Glasgow Warriors a third successive defeat that saw them leapfrogged at the top of Conference A by Munster.

The Italian side made it four wins in a row as they took advantage of a profligate performance from their opponents in Italy.

Glasgow led 14-12 despite a double from Dean Budd for Treviso, with Sam Johnson and George Horne scoring either side of Budd’s second for the Warriors.

However, Braam Steyn put Treviso back in front as he crashed over and Tommaso Allan again restored their advantage from the tee after the boot of Adam Hastings had levelled matters once more.

Two tries, one win and the man-of-the-match award – a good day’s work for @BenettonRugby‘s Dean Budd

Award presented by Massimo Bauce on behalf of Guinness #GUINNESSPRO14 #BENvGLA pic.twitter.com/o1tht7pSad

— PRO14 RUGBY (@PRO14Official) January 5, 2019

Glasgow saw numerous chances to win it go begging as Alex Allan was held up over the line, and Hastings’ pass to Niko Matawalu in the corner went forward, with substitute Brandon Thomson then missing a last-minute penalty as Treviso held on.

Munster took advantage of another Glasgow slip-up with a narrow 31-24 victory at Connacht. They trailed 17-14 three minutes into the second half but 17 points in 16 minutes effectively made the points safe for Munster – for whom Joey Carbery scored 15 points – despite Jack Carty fraying the nerves by dotting down for Connacht seven minutes from time.

Conference B leaders Leinster routed Ulster, running in six tries in a 40-7 triumph, while Scarlets defeated Dragons 22-13 thanks in part to 12 points from the boot of Dan Jones.

Scott Williams and George North crossed for Ospreys in their 20-11 derby victory over Cardiff Blues, whose winless run at the Liberty Stadium now spans 14 years.

Elsewhere in Conference B, Edinburgh crushed Southern Kings 38-0.

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