encounter WE'LL FRONT UP TO O'GARA

Reds vow not to take a backward step in France

- MICHAEL SCULLY

MUNSTER have vowed not to take a backward step against Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle with their Champions Cup hopes on the line.

Incoming boss Clayton McMillan made the long trip from New Zealand to spend a week in the company of the coaches and players he will work with from the summer.

But the Kiwi's arrival was not allowed to become a distraction as the Reds prepared for their visit to MacHale Park on Saturday.

"He came in and met people, stayed in the background," explained Ian Costello, who has been Munster's interim head coach since the end of October.

"It was brilliant to have him here, to develop some relationships and connections. That will really help him understand the environment.