Munster have been handed a late Christmas boost, with the news that the back-row duo of Robin Copeland and Dave O'Callaghan have signed new two-year contracts with the province.

Copeland joined Munster from Cardiff Blues at the start of last year. The Wexford native has played 24 times for the province, scoring six tries.

O'Callaghan made his debut for Munster in 2011 after working his way up from the academy. The 25-year-old has played 52 times for the province and has played for the Emerging Ireland side.

The province also announced that Rory Scannell has signed his first professional contract with the team. The 22-year-old has played at fly-half and in the centre since making his debut inb 204.

Head coach Anthony Foley is delighted with the news. "It is great to have Robin, Dave and Rory commit to the province. Each player has their own individual attributes and are all valuable members of this squad."

Munster's next game is this Saturday, when they travel to Belfast to face Ulster.