'); 'As much as it came to an abrupt end, it was a bit of a blessing in disguise' Ex-Munster fullback Sean Scanlon has retired from professional rugby after seven seasons in the Championship. By Murray Kinsella Thursday 21 Jan 2021, 9:29 PM Jan 21st 2021, 9:29 PM 34,651 Views 8 Comments Scanlon in action for Munster against Wasps in a pre-season game in 2011. Image: Billy Stickland/INPHO Image: Billy Stickland/INPHO CHRISTMAS DAY 2011 in the Scanlon household in Limerick. Turkey, ham, and a large serving of nerves all round. 23-year-old Sean was set for his senior Munster debut at fullback the following day against Connacht at Thomond Park, where John Hayes would bid farewell to professional rugby in front of more than 20,000 people.