'Best contest in decades' - RTÉ rugby panel hail Munster win over Leinster

The RTÉ Rugby panel were effusive in their praise as Munster beat Leinster for only the second time in 14 attempts at the Aviva Stadium and ended a five-game semi-final losing streak in all competitions.

Yesterday's BKT URC victory was also just a second win in their last 11 meetings against Leinster, who had already done the double over Munster this season.

Jack Crowley's late dropgoal earned Graham Rowntree's side a famous 16-15 win and ended Leinster's hopes of a double, with the Heineken Champions Cup final to come on Saturday.

But yesterday was Munster's day and they will now face the DHL Stormers on 27 May in Cape Town.

Former Munster and Ireland captain Donal Lenihan said: "They have waited long and hard for this.

"What a game. It's the best contest between Munster and Leinster in decades.

"It came down to a fine margin in the end, Crowley, he just had the confidence to go for it.

"It was a phenomenal game, the second year in a row Leinster, who have led the URC all season, go out in the semi-final hurdle.

"Munster, this is an endorsement of the management team. Fitness, staying power, they got their reward today, what a game!"

Bernard Jackman, the former Leinster and Ireland hooker, added: "It was a mixture of everything. An improved game plan, better defence, old fashioned heart and spirit, going deep, finding a way.

"There was a knock on by [Thomas] Clarkson, they ran from their own goalline, a great kick from [Craig] Casey, they got possession back and then they got into position for a dropgoal.

"Leinster died with their boots on, they have another match next week for silverware but what a win for Munster."

Analyst Donncha O’Callaghan, who won two Heineken Cups with Munster, praised Crowley for his composure in the dying