The Dublin native will have to sit out this Saturday’s URC clash with Connacht in MacHale Park in Castlebar due to the usual terms of a loan deal, but Lawler believes Smith’s move south can work out. “He's exactly what we expected to sign,” said Lawler when asked to assess Smith’s debut in Glasgow last weekend. “I had the privilege of working with Smithy from an Irish schools level and an Irish 19 so I fairly know him well. The opportunity was to get him down on loan and we jumped at the chance.” Smith, who has also played at U-20 level for Ireland, made a big impression when he moved to the Sportsground last season and his contract was extended after he made 13 appearances for Pete Wilkins’ side. He was then one of four provincial players called into the Irish sevens squad for the Olympics in Paris but has struggled for opportunities with Connacht this season, with his only appearance being a 22-minute cameo against Perpignan in the Challenge Cup. He is the fourth former Connacht back to join Munster. Winger Seán O’Brien went to Munster via Exeter Chiefs after a stint in Galway, while Tom Farrell has been a revelation in the centre for the Reds after being surplus to requirements with Connacht. Winger Diarmuid Kilgallen was head-hunted by Graham Rowntree when he was in charge but the Kildare native, who made 23 appearances for Connacht, has been hampered by injury in his first season in Limerick and has played in just three games. Smith may have to wait some weeks for another opportunity to impress unless he is added to their European squad but Lawler reckons Smith can build on his impressive start with Munster. “Real physical player as you saw last weekend,” added Lawler. “Lots of double efforts, really good in defence, really good under the high ball and adds another layer to attack in relation to his work rate off the ball. Couldn't be happier in relation to I suppose his debut. “There's a couple of things that we will need to iron out but really, really pleasing.”