Munster’s clash at Cardiff City Stadium this Sunday is effectively a quarter-final with both teams fighting for the final spot in the play-offs.
Tony McGahan’s men need just two points from their last game of the regular season to qualify. A single point would also be enough, if they stop Cardiff picking up a bonus.
The make-or-break tie comes just a week after Munster heartache in their Heineken Cup exit at the hands of Biarritz.
That result was in contrast to Cardiff who won 18-15 at London Wasps to reach the Amlin Challenge Cup final later this month. And Blues skipper Tito knows Munster will have a major point to prove.
Tito said: “We are full of confidence right now but we know Munster will be hurt from their Heineken Cup loss and they will be desperate to salvage something from the season.
“Things are going well for us and we’re fighting for silverware on two fronts. But Munster are not about to role over and let us take their place in the top four.
“The different scenarios for qualificatrion is pretty confusing, but at the end of the day, we have to win.”
Cardiff have hit form since the New Year after winning 11 of their last 13 games – including their last eight on the road. But they have front-row concerns over props Gethin Jenkins and Taufa’ao Filise and are already without Andy Powell, Gareth Cooper and Tom Shanklin.
Tito said: “Our home form has not been as good as our performances away, but that won’t matter come Sunday. In big games like this, it’s al about two teams going for one place. It’s do or die for both sides.”
Filise is out with a groin injury while Jenkins is struggling with an ankle complaint. Wales lock Bradley Davies is also a doubt after suffering a back spasm.
