\n<\/p>\n
There are layers to this rivalry going back years. After years of underachievement, Glasgow under Gregor Townsend started to emerge as a serious force capable of competing at the top end of the table, and when they finally did claim the Pro12 title in 2015, it was Munster who were vanquished in the final in Belfast.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think that hurt Munster as well,\u201d Brown said.<\/p>\n
\u201cThat was their first shot at winning silverware for a while and it was a little bit of a non-performance from them, but Glasgow blew them away that day.\u201d<\/p>\n
These clubs have waged war on the pitch and slung mud at each other in the media over the past decade. <\/p>\n
There was Keith Earls accusing Brown of \u201cmilking it\u201d after a reckless tip tackle that led to a red card for the Ireland wing in a Champions Cup game at Thomond Park in 2016.<\/p>\n
And Conor Murray claiming Glasgow players dangerously targeted his standing leg after box-kicks in the same competition at Scotstoun the following year.<\/p>\n
This fixture has had more than its fair share of flashpoints.<\/p>\n
Another was Tom Jordan\u2019s red card against Munster 25 minutes into last season\u2019s quarter-final at Scotstoun. <\/p>\n
It was in no way controversial – the punishment was entirely justified \u2013 but it was another example how the physical intensity of these matches sits right on the edge. <\/p>\n
Jordan got it wrong with his high shot that made contact with Murray\u2019s head, Munster took advantage and rode the momentum of victory at Scotstoun all the way to the URC title.<\/p>\n
“That quarter-final really was a tough pill to swallow,\u201d said Glasgow flanker Rory Darge.<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen you’re watching URC semis and finals after getting knocked out in the quarters in a game that you feel like you didn’t show your best, it’s a tough one to take.<\/p>\n
“Since I’ve been at Glasgow anyway, every game we’ve played them, it’s just been so competitive, so physical, lots of niggle.<\/p>\n
“I think we’ve learned more lessons. We’re not going to shy away from our ambition, but that doesn’t mean that we’re under any illusions about it’s going to take.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/div>\n