... which left us two points behind. Game on. Let's let the newspapers tell the grisly details

The Guardian felt that

The inescapable truth, however, is that Sale have all but squandered their stunning opening away win at Clermont.

Saint-André says Sale are still alive despite defeat to Montauban

The Independent were somewhat scathing about the tactics:

There was no reference to the disfunctional early line-out, nor any thought that playing most of the second half with the sole aim of perhaps being gifted penalties after kicking the ball deep into Montauban territory might show a paucity of ideas.

 Chabal still a winner as Sale fall flat in France

The Times, on the other hand, felt that Montauban deserved some credit

All things considered, it was a gutsy display by the mid-table French club, who recorded their first win in the competition.

Sale Sharks facing uphill struggle

The Telegraph had a pithy summary

 But Munster prevailed. That is the sobering reality. 

Sebastien Chabal says Sale can go to Munster and win

And Planet Rugby said

Sale missed the opportunity to reclaim Pool One's summit as Montauban edged home 16-12 at Sapiac, claiming their debut Heineken Cup victory on Saturday.

Montauban dent Sharks hopes

So, what are the prospects? Well, nine points from the last two games would see us through. But realistically? A win at Thomond Park? Leicester did it a couple of years back, but that's the only time in 13 years that Munster have been beaten at home in the EuropeanCup. And, given Sale's ability to throw away decent opportunities, I suppose that we'll be 'concentrating on the Premiership' come late January.

Still, we can always live in hope...

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