A RUGBY match doesn't sound like the best starting-point for a play - but the game which forms the backdrop to Alone It Stands is more interesting than most.

The Dublin Lane Productions' stage show tells the story of the legendary 1978 encounter between Munster and the All Blacks.

For anyone unfamiliar with rugby folklore, this historic victory by a team of Irish amateurs over the all-conquering world-class New Zealand side is still talked about in awed tones today.

This award-winning comedy not only tells the story of the ultimate David and Goliath sporting scenario, but gives us an imaginary insight into the excitement surrounding the event and the characters lurking on its periphery.

Six actors play more than 60 characters in the show, including Tony Black and the Munster team, the All Blacks and their coach, two fanatical Limerick supporters desperate for tickets, Sinbad the dog and, of course, the Bunratty medieval singers. A birth and a wake are also thrown into the mix. AW

Haymarket Theatre, Basingstoke. Monday until Saturday, January 25. Performance: 7.45pm. Tickets: from £8.50. Box office: 01256 465566.