Ulster v Leinster Scrum V Live

Last year, the Ospreys became the most successful side in the history

of the Pro12 when they took this trophy at this very ground. They are

not here to defend their title this year having failed to make the

knockout stages. Wales may be the six Nations champions and the

dominant force in the Lions squad but no matter what happens here

today, this trophy will end up in Irish hands. Tommy Bowe takes Ulster

to the final. Ulster have beaten the Scarlets at Ravenhill. It is all set

is straight through. Tommy Bowe slips through. And he keeps on

scoring tries. And Tommy Bowe adds yet another try. Unstoppable.They

have beaten Stade Francais. They are need them. It is Ian Madigan for

leave European champions Leinster this summer. Lovely play. What a

superb bit of work. Ruan Pienaar for Ulster. It is all set for an all

Irish showdown in Dublin. Yes, it is an all Irish affair. These two teams

finished in second and first place but only one can be crowned

champions. It is Ulster versus Leinster. And it really is a

carnival atmosphere in Dublin today. 18,000 fans. Plenty of players with

points to prove. Jamie Heaslip looking to enhance his Lions

credentials. Five Lions playing in blue today. And an emotional day.

Joe Schmidt playing for Leinster for the final time. Isa Nacewa also

leaving the club. Tommy Bowe also looking to make a mark this evening.

Good evening and welcome to the RDS. It is drenched in sunshine. As we

said, it is technically a home tie for Ulster. But it is Leinster's

home ground. Who are the favourites? It is difficult. These are the two

best teams in the league. I would say at home, at the RDS, you would

make Leinster favourites. And they also know what it is like to win a

trophy. Ulster have not quite got over the final hurdle yet. They have

the edge. I would just tip Leinster as favourites. The final hurdle,

Leinster beat Ulster in the Heineken Cup final. There is a suggestion

that Ulster had a European cup hangover. Might history repeat

itself? You have to stop Leinster in the first 15 minutes. I was your

last Friday and a blue Stade Francais away in those first ten

minutes. In all honesty, the occasion is just too much. All the

players leaving, I think Leinster will have a little bit too much

today. This isn't just a Pro12 final, it is an unofficial Lions

trial. There are six Lions on display tonight looking to catch

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It really is a fantastic atmosphere at the RDS. My 90,000 fans from each

team here. -- 9000. Tommy Bowe is looking great. He is a big game

player and he will love this atmosphere today. He has scored five

tries in seven starts in the league this season. The record Pro12 try

scorer. But he is a marked man and Leinster will know him very well.

They will need to use him as a decoy as well is ball-carrier. He will

have a point to prove tonight. Talking of talisman for Leinster,

another one in the back row, Nick Williams. A potential matchwinner

tonight. Yes, he really is a huge cog in the machine. He carries the

rugby ball sometimes like a tennis ball and offload at every

opportunity. He has got himself fit and has been a great player this

season. Plenty of Lions players in blue this evening. Sean O'Brien is

injured. But you have been keeping an eye on a genuine Lions contender,

Rob Kearney. Yes, only six Pro12 starts. Or some under the high ball

and he is a left footed option. Great on the counterattack. Of late,

he has been coming on the inside ball, off Jonathan Sexton and Brian

O'Driscoll and he scores tries. another big player for Leinster,

Cian Healy. The outside -- in outstanding form of late. It will be

some battle between him and Gethin Jenkins. He was on the bench last

weekend against Stade Francais. He came on in the last 20 minutes and

he was like a man possessed. Nine times out of ten, it takes a couple

of players to pull him down. But he today? It is not at all yet. It is

very much trying to be as pragmatic as I can be. Trying to being

systematic. And make sure that the players are best prepared. It is a

lot less about me than it is about the 15 guys starting the game.

at the RDS, is it any advantage to you? I think it will be very

segregated. Any perceived home advantage is going to be raucously

drowned out. I think it will add to what will be a pretty special

Ulster, particularly in the wake of the tragedy for Nevin Spence.

it was a tough way to start the year. He was a young man with a

future in front of him. It was tough at the start of the year but it

brought the guys in together and they comforted each other. We wanted

to do justice to his memory. And to his family and do him proud. All

year, we have been trying to do that and today, it gives us an

opportunity to finally put a mark in the ground about where we are.

an emotional night for more reasons than just one. We can now go to the

touchline. Yes, the atmosphere here is

absolutely fantastic. 9000 tickets to Ulster, 9002 Leinster. Each side

of the ground is dominated by the supporters. Conditions are perfect.

It is a bit of a stiff wind blowing from right to left.

An emotional day for Joe Schmidt. And Brian O'Driscoll. He is up there

with the greats of the game as Ireland's greatest players. Is he

the greatest ever? Certainly the greatest I have played with. Very

hard to compare like with like in different eras but the effect he has

had on rugby in Ireland and internationally, we all know what he

can do a skill wise, sidestepping, the complete player. For a guy that

size in this day and age and still be so pivotal in the top end of the

game is amazing. Some breaking news. Dylan Hartley, the England

hooker in the Lions squad, has been sent off at Twickenham. Where does

that bring Rory Best in? You could be the next in line. I think most of

us would have had him in the squad. He has had to take a lot of the

flak, I guess, for the Ireland line-out malfunctioning in the six

Nations. I think if there is to be a call-up, if Dylan Hartley is to be

banned and unable to travel, I think we are very lucky to have the likes

of Rory Best to be able to step in and I think he deserves to be on

that flight. Yes, as if we don't have enough to play for already.

Yes, very interesting news. We talked earlier about how both teams

had very attacking back lines. But to win finals, you need a man to

manage the game and in Jonathan Sexton and Ruan Pienaar, these teams

have two of the best in the northern hemisphere. Yes, Ruan Pienaar always

seems to have time on the ball and never seems to make a bad decision.

He does the right thing at the right time. Very composed. We'll be

looking for him to move to number ten later in the game. He the

strings in this side. Jonathan Sexton, a similar talisman for

Leinster. Yes, for a long time, Leinster were looking for a

controlling number ten, and this is one from within the ranks. He is

maturing and has grown in stature. Much like Dan Biggar. But he is the

consummate professional. He kicks very well. He brings those guys into

play. Jonathan Sexton, shame that Leinster as losing him. Racing Metro

have the complete player. The teams are on their way out, about to come

out. We can cross to Lama -- to our the ground. A perfect day for a

grand finale to the season. It is an absolutely amazing atmosphere. You

have the big stadiums and they are great but there is something really

special about this smaller old-fashioned stage. It is supposed

to be a home game for Leinster. But let me tell you, the noise has been

absolutely incredible from the Ulster fans. Yes, there was a

thought that maybe moving it down the road and getting 30,000 in in a

50,000 stadium, but this is just right. Yes, I think they would have

filled it. But I am really looking forward to this game. With what

Ulster have gone through this year, with Nevin Spence and everything,

they failed in their big bid for the Heineken Cup. Also Leinster have

dipped a little bit but came back to win the Amlin Challenge Cup. This is

a massive, massive end of season game. The two best sides in the pro

12 are here today. -- Pro12. I am really looking forward to this game.

The two inform teams, without a shadow of a doubt. Ulster made just

one change from the play-offs. John Afoa comes in on the tighthead. Nick

Williams, Chris Henry, Robbie Diack, so effective in the back row.

And behind, they have Ruan Pienaar, and what a back three, Tommy Bowe

and Andrew Trimble. They have tries in them all season. Leinster have an

international in every position in that pack. Leo Cullen, the quiet

man, always leads by example. It is a star-studded line-up. And Jonathan

Sexton and Brian O'Driscoll recovered from his back injury. And

that is a fantastic back three with the likes of Rob Kearney and Isa

Nacewa, playing his last game Irishman in charge, John Lacey, the

referee this afternoon. We have had the drums, we have had the

fireworks, we have had a flag-waving. It is only the rugby to

go, and what a mouthwatering will get things under way. He needs

to show authority now and ooze confidence, which will go through

his side. Diack gets the first Ulster try and slow it down, but

even in the first minute, the teams are showing an intent to playwright

B. Yes, and it is a lovely day, but it is very blustery. I am not really

sure which side has the advantage of the elements in the first half.

Looking at the flags, they seem to be blowing everywhere, so it could

be a crucial part of the seedings. That was a great day. We saw that in

last year's play-off final, and it took Dan Biggar's touchline

conversion at the end to steal the win for the Ospreys. That just shows

how crucial discipline will be today, because that was their own

halfway line, they are now defending. The wind is definitely

Henry will feel a bit aggrieved that is robbing powers were the cause.

But it has gone against Tom Court, It shows intent. They want tries.

They want to put a bit of distance try-line... Try!Very well worked

indeed by Leinster, so clever. for the corner a couple of times,

and they are awarded with a try right at the very beginning. Well,

it is a good catch first of all, they try to put them all down, but

the drive is very, very powerful and purposeful. There we are, a great

catch by Cullen. They go in, they stay on their feet, they rolled to

the front, the ball is in the back of the maul, total control. Shane

Jennings gets the early score, but it was a great effort by the whole

pack. I think they will be worried about that as well, because it was

so, so easy, far too easy. The Ulster management will not be happy

superb conversion. Right into the Ulster end, where it is the blue

flags at the far end that offline, 7-0 is Leinster's lead. Paul

Wallace, what did you make of that start? That was evident, their

confidence. They are so methodical, so professional, they are a

confident side who have won three, a more structured outfit with

experience of playing big games. Also are looking a bit unsettled.

Back to you, Gareth! With all the penalties early doors going

Leinster's way. Yes, their egos, have a word. -- there egos. Number

four was offside, he was saying, you were offside. Johann Muller will

have a bit to think about in the early stages of this one. Cosby

momentum is very much with here in the commentary point, and

that was a perfect drive over from Leinster. Yes, it was, they have got

the wind, quite a strong wind with them, so no need to panic for

Ulster, but that is what Leinster do so well, score quickly, and you find

yourself far behind. The approach is that they do not want to be chasing

it. Sexton, or Madigan this time is the receiver. Same result again.

Every single breakdown has resulted in an Ulster penalty. Well, he has

to give him a warning now. The last three rucks or mauls have been a

penalty. Official warning...There release before going for the ball,

John Lacey saying there was no release. I would like to see a

replay of that. With the naked eye, call. It must be so difficult, as a

number seven. Another referee, you would get away with that. It is

against your instinct, isn't it? Ulster boys have been warned three

times, stay away from it, do not give the referee a decision to make

this a Lyon. But there is a balance, you do not want to give them, a side

Sexton, and Leinster's perfect start, double figures within eight

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together, and it was the man from Leinster who got the important touch

at the expense of conceding a five metre scrum. Well, they needed at

Jackson. Good cover, very good cover by Boss. A big first scrum, this

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will be key. As good as Cian Healy Pienaar there, very good play. He

delayed the ball going in there, and he just spoke to the referee and

said, I cannot put the ball in, he is coming far too low. He could have

easily been penalised, that is very do they go again? I am no captain! I

would take the points, I would take the points. You need to get on the

board against Leinster. If you let them get too far ahead... The scrum

is a lottery, they will not have many opportunities to dominate.

think that decision has been made because it is a very tough kick

against a strong wind, it is a wrong. Cian Healy is in all sorts of

problems. I would take that one back! I think the next decision will

be a lot easier, to be honest! was some scrum. Interesting, the

difference, four stone. Most sites these days are pretty similar. Big

men behind the Ulster second row. do not see how they could penalised

Play on, says the referee. That is a I do not think anyone in red will

feel that that is justice in any shape or form. -- let - off. Without

a shadow of a doubt, that is a penalty try. You cannot say play

it, the scrum has gone down. He has not got to play its there. Ely has

all sorts of problems. Definite This lineout is taking place on

Leinster's 22. I wonder where Rory beforehand, he was carrying the can

for some of the Ireland's woes in efforts of McFadden, the touch

the far side. What does he make of things? Rob Kearney injured very

late in the warmup. None of us were informed of it. Leinster are

remaining very tightlipped about it. Maybe it is sensitive because he in

the Lions squad. Paul Wallace, is it surprising that they are keeping

tightlipped? I think bringing in Andrew Conway, he has been in great

form at the moment but Rob Kearney is a loss. He is such an experienced

player. From a Leinster perspective at the moment, they are very

controlled but lucky to get away without a penalty try in the scrum

earlier on. John Afoa is really putting Cian Healy under the cosh.

Yes, a former Lions prop calling it exactly the same as Jonathan.

is far more educated than I am in Ruan Pienaar under all kinds of

pressure, initially from Isaac Boss. And then the rest of the back row.

At least he is consistent, that's the thing. Very difficult ball for

Ruan Pienaar to take there. The one back on John Afoa. He won the

head, which makes such a difference in the modern game. Yes, they are

trying to take that away in the laws for next season. It is very

difficult to see if it would be successful because we thought this

would be more successful and it has not been. I'm sure that the coaches

will manipulate it again in their favour. And just an indication of

the atmosphere. Rory Best cannot hear the calls. He has lost a couple

of throw ins. That one found band to Wii. Here comes Tommy Bowe,

brilliant. Jackson, a big hit from Isa Nacewa and it needed to be. That

is a great pass. He hasn't got the ball down. He was over the try line

but has he got it down now? Will that be awarded? That could have

been a gilt-edged opportunity thrown away. I thought the whistle had gone

before he put the ball down. costly could that be? He needed to

slide in. It is great play. Tommy Bowe, here he comes. Cuts inside,

great support play and then they go down to ground, go low! Why did he

go high? You have to go low. There is no need to step inside at all.

That could come back to haunt them. It was a great ball. Darren Cave did

exceptionally well. He held the defence. You just cannot squander

those chances. Well, the Ulster management bench directly in front

of us in the commentary point worth apoplectic that Robbie Diack did not

Ulster but there is still that big C Rowe on their half of the

scoreboard. They should have been in time. Good protection, Chris Henry.

A couple of metres short. Diving in, surely. But they get away with it.

The ball comes back. Rory Best. Good continuity from Nick Williams.

defensive line is very strong, Leinster. They reorganised so

quickly. And they have won the penalty and a chance to clear. And

again, Ulster come out of it empty-handed. Isaac pass, very good

in the tackle area. -- Isaac Boss. That is a big one to win and in the

defence must be growing all the time. I thought he would have gone

the other way because the wind is definitely favouring Leinster. But

actually going towards the opposite injuries this season. That is a

great take. Devin Toner. Needing all of his six foot 11 to get hold of

that one. Brilliant, space for Andrew Conway. Safety first, quite

sensibly, from Jared Payne. That is very good play. It is very difficult

to pick up the Lakeland. Isa Nacewa comes on a late run. They make it

look so easy. So innovative. It is never the same thing. Always

knock on. They will have to settle for a clean catch. Sometimes you

have to ride your luck a little bit and sometimes you feel the bounds of

the ball goes against you. I certainly think that is the case now

with Ulster. They are just not having the run of the ball. That is

Leinster at the moment. A very good kick by Paddy Jackson. He looks

far in the line-out. Leinster winning easy ball. It is too easy

it opens up for Jonathan Sexton. Well played, Andrew Trimble. He

really got over the ball very well indeed. I just think you see a lot

of back swinging turnovers now. And that is because they are naturally

quicker than me/ they are and sharper. And if you look at where

Trimble has come from, he has come from behind the ruck. It is

board though, Ulster. All the pressure they have had, they need

something on the board. Those ten points came in the opening eight

minutes. Since then, it has all been in Leinster's half. I have to say

that looking at it, Ulster should be in front. The penalty try is one

thing and then how they bombed that great play and the overlap with

Robbie Diack. Johann Muller takes The communication defensively has

away straight in front of the John Afoa is getting his right

hamstring taped up and he has just come back from injury. He is a big

Ulster. What a contribution he's made. Yes, good player. It doesn't

matter how big you are, look at John Afoa, if you're hamstring goes, you

either side and at long last, Ulster have their first points in the

play-off final. Jonathan Sexton is struggling as well. He has had a

fair bit of treatment in the last five minutes. I think he fell

with some points on the board. Andrew Conway doing his level best

to get on the end of it but it was too firmly struck by Jonathan

Sexton. Yes, and a little Nicol, a lack of concentration. This will

test his hamstring. He doesn't look 100% for me. I think Fitzpatrick

will be starting to warm up soon. Yes. He didn't actually sprint to

that scrum, did he? Yes, maybe he has been carrying it for the last

REFEREE: Just wait. Put your head where it is

A change of direction. Bringing in Stuart Olding, one of the Irish

under 20 stars. Stopped in his tracks. He only just got hold of the

ball. Richard Stroh is absolutely flattened by Rory Best. I'm not sure

he knows quite where he is. -- up and at them again. And he is

fighting for that one and he has won a penalty for his team. Fair play to

him. He can have a breather now and That is nasty. But he got up.

then he put his head straight back in there. Very good in the contact

area, Leinster. Very smart, very streetwise. They win a lot of

penalties there. That was a shot of the coaching team for Leinster. His

last game in charge before taking charge of Ireland, 99 games in

charge, they have only lost 19 of them. I wonder how close he was to

the coaching staff of the Lions. couldn't have been far away, his

record speaks for himself. As a player, you sit back and enjoy it.

The way they play, the skills, how innovative the, he has done a great

job. That will be a worry now for Kearney, because Warren Gatland has

said, anything longer than a two-week injury, you are doubtful to

take, so a hamstring is nasty. Lions get together again tomorrow in

London, a dinner tomorrow night before they head off on the plane on

Monday evening, down to Australia. They have had the weekend off after

a weekend training in Dublin, just outside Dublin. Who would replace

Rob Carney? Lieben has been playing be a yellow card as well. He is

lucky not to get carded there. is an official warning, it should be

a yellow card. That is normally a clever but... ! Very sneaky and

silly. No intent is there, no going off. -- who go. Sean Cronin is

coming on, 26 caps for Ireland. A couple of stitches in there, you

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never know. Call for the smelling isn't it? The restart and a cake. --

7-point gap between the teams. A good early start by Leinster, so

affective. Shane Jennings was the defence was there, both claiming he

was taken before he had the ball. A close run thing. You cannot take

your eyes off this, something is that is unlikely! He read it well,

Trimble. Toner's heart was in his Leinster. Here is the turnover, I

think. So impressive with Leinster, even though they were turned over,

they were still organised in defence, fair play to them, two

passes, the line is still there, really difficult to break down.

again, it is a prop creating the overlap. Trimble came in, committed

himself. Conway was free, but equally so Trimble managed to keep

for Shane Jennings taking him before Court... Good play by Boss, similar

to Pienaar earlier. With half-time approaching and the use of the wind

getting less and less, Leinster are desperate to get points on the

board. They have not had any ball or field position, to be honest. They

are just going to make a few points, aren't they? Try and make a few

territory. But they have only come away with three points. And now

another chance for Johnny Sexton. He might be a couple of metres in from

halfway. His last kick was a bit of a disappointment. You have just got

and it has got there! Just enough spare, a distance kick by Johnny

Sexton opens up a ten point gap they will be beginning to think

cancel out that Sexton penalty. is absolutely ferocious at the

breakdown, ferocious. There are some great breakdown exponents, Shane

Leinster will be very disappointed to find themselves in the position

that they do. Good tackle by O Driscoll on Jared Payne, but Diack

try, though, game is still very much touch judges say it is straight as

well, and indeed it is just a converted try between them and less

than five minutes to go in the first half. Ruan Pienaar successful with

his second penalty. They know it is a very strong wind as well. I will

be interested to see if John Afoa comes out in the second half, and if

he does, he will be a great help if he can just carry on. But he is

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blindside. A big passage of play here for Ulster. They have got to

try and stop Leinster scoring before half-time. It is a great response

after the penalty by Leinster. Patient build-up from Leinster, they

Leinster's way. They want more, they want this second try just before the

interval. And it will be interesting to see what the decision is from

this one. That is a great response, but you have to say that they have

done some very clever running, Leinster, some dummy running, taking

they were going for the corner, going four tries, now it is the more

himself there, because he was an important defender for Ulster. There

is a lot of of the ball stuff happening there. The referee, I have

to say that, as a neutral, a lot of decisions seem to have favoured

Leinster, but hey, you have just got to play the referee, you have to

Jonathan Sexton. Even though he is within the 22. As it was for the

long-range effort, so it is for the one closer to home, and the result

is the same - Leinster gave themselves a little bit more

breathing space with the interval the park? Yes they are, Isaac Boss

knows they are nearly changing rooms, they can just walk off, and

it has been an enthralling first half. Not too much to choose between

the teams, Leinster started strongly, pretty strongly. Ulster in

the middle... Anyone's game, anyone's game still. The only try of

the match, though, coming right at the very start to Shane Jennings

after that perfect lineout drive, and a battle of the diggers, and

even no Ulster had their chances, they did not take them. -- kickers.

They have to rely on two from the boot of Ruan Pienaar, compared to

three from Jonathan Sexton. It is very finely balanced indeed, as we

would expect between two such close teams. Ulster new Marek six,

score is because Williams is being negated all that time? Leinster are

very clinical in their scoring, Nick Williams getting across the

gain-line, marshalling them so well, the Leinster defence. The one try

they should have scored by Diack was when he was a decoy offloading, so

maybe they should be using him more intelligently than that to get them

all space out wide and using travel with the Lions this week.

James Hook playing for the Barbarians tomorrow. I think Lee

Byrne has been in superb form. One of the lesser talked about players.

I want Rob Kearney to be fit, he is really hitting form at the moment

but I think Lee Byrne, as he showed expect that the RDS in Dublin. Huge

rivalry between these sides. first half didn't disappoint. It was

a perfect start for Leinster. Shane Jennings crashing over from a driven

line-out. Jonathan Sexton added a penalty. Robbie Diack was not able

to ground the ball for Ulster after crossing the line. And then there

was an exchange of penalties. Finely poised, I think you can say. Yes,

more finely poised than you would think. As I said at the top of the

show, you cannot let Leinster in early on and they scored far too

early. To their credit, Ulster have bounced back. They have not taken

their chances. Clear-cut chances. Maybe the referee is not giving

Ulster a fair crack of whip. It would be interesting to see whether

he controls the tackle area in the second half. What's your view point

from the commentary box? It is difficult. Both teams build on

defending in the contact area, the tackle area. It is such a grey area

whether they have released. Sometimes you get away with it. But

they do seem to be getting the rub of the green. Ulster have given away

some silly penalties in silly areas. It is something they need to look

at. Chris Henry lucky not to be yellow carded. You talked about

Leinster having to be contained and they did make that perfect start.

Yes, I have been really in -- impressed in this first half by

Devin Toner. He is making big hits and carrying the ball. They are very

dominant. These Irish teams score. And that is way too easy for Shane

Jennings. But they remain on their feet and they get bodies in front of

the ball carrier and it is far too easy. You cannot give them a ten

point Headstart. It all came from a penalty in their own half. He putted

five metres from the line. That makes it easy for Leinster.

Ulster did wake up then. There was a case for a penalty try. Three strong

scrums. But Leinster got out of jail. I think so. This is the second

scrum, sorry the third scrum. The ball is in the second row 's feet.

They are totally dominant. I hope John Afoa comes out in the second

half. Yet again, the referee does not give them the rub of the green.

It would have warranted a penalty try and they should have had seven

points. Penalty try? Without a shadow of a doubt, if not it is

another penalty. And the Robbie Diack incident. A bit of naivete?

he should be diving in, three yards from the line. That has really cost

Ulster. That is way too late. Some good build-up play by Tommy Bowe. A

great pass by Darren Cave. He should be sliding in from five yards out to

score. Finely poised, that breakdown battle is crucial. Can you see a few

cards being shown? I think he should have been giving a yellow card for

Chris Henry, silly play. But they are all slowing the game down. The

game is intense, but a bit more free-flowing and you will see some

the Lions manager. Things not going as well as you would have hoped.

Dylan Hartley has been sent off for Northampton. What is the procedure?

I have literally just heard. I am pretty much in the dark. We will

obviously have to see what the due process is. But I cannot say

anything now. I will have a word with Warren Gatland dandelions board

later tonight. Also the injury to Rob Kearney. Not ideal. I was

surprised to see him not playing. I have heard that it was just a

precautionary move on his part but again, we will have to see after the

game what he has got to say. fantastic atmosphere today. As good

as I have ever experienced in the Pro12. It is a fantastic little

stadium. A passionate, colourful scene. It really is high tempo up

there and a great atmosphere. you see the game going in the second

half? Ulster have played pretty well into this win. It will be

interesting to see if they kick more. They have had a lot of the

ball into the wind and it is a strong wind. I will be very

surprised if they don't kick a couple of goals in the second half.

It is all to play for. Ulster certainly have the wind advantage to

come. Back to the Lions, you were a great tourist yourself, how are you

looking forward to the management job? We are all really buzzing. We

have had a couple of good weeks in training in the Vale of Glamorgan.

The boys are buzzing and we cannot wait to get on that plane. I will be

there. I won't tell you how much I paid for my tickets so make sure it

is a good one. We don't need any excuse to get our test 15 is out

again. We have asked you to pick yours again. Let's have a look at

yours first. I have changed mine so many times in the last eight weeks.

It is Welsh bias, I will admit that. But if they are 50-50 calls, Warren

Gatland will go with the players he knows. The back row is difficult.

What I will say is we all picked our sides now but there are six games

before the first test. It will change over the next couple of

weeks. We can't talk about this being a potential trial, that there

are six provincial games, seven including the Barbarians. Let's have

a look at your team. Yes, I am a big Justin Tipuric fan. I think Toby

Faletau was the form number eight in the Six Nations. I have gone for

Cian Healy, maybe a little bit more in terms of a powerful ball-carrier

with Gethin Jenkins to come on. And I have gone for too loudly. I think

he's a real handful. Alongside the experience of Brian O'Driscoll, I

think it may pay dividends. If Rob Kearney is ruled out, who would you

go for as his replacement? It is very yearly to say. I think he will

be fit. If it is a 50-50 call, I think you will go. Lee Byrne has

been outstanding this season. The coaching staff and all about him. I

think he would be next on the list. We can talk Wales now as well, they

are touring Japan next month. Robin McBryde has picked a fairly

inexperienced side, including the likes of Rhys Patchell. Pretorius in

the forwards. A very inexperienced side. Bradley Davies as captain.

That is a fantastic honour for Bradley Davies. He is a

larger-than-life character. With it being such a young squad, it will be

easier for him to step up and captain the side. He is probably the

most experienced there. Good luck to him. He deserves it. Are you

concerned that the slight lack of experience? Japan will be building

for the World Cup and they will be looking for a scalp. But it is good

to see some development in there. Rhys Patchell, Ashley Beck getting

more exposure. But I am looking forward to seeing James King. He has

had a fine season for the Ospreys. It is nice to see some of these

players getting a chance. You can follow the tour on BBC Wales and S4

see. But you will have two set the alarm. There are the details on

screen. The Lions tour as well, we will be following everything on BBC

Wales. Plenty of coverage. Regular updates throughout and over the next

seven weeks. Back to today's game and a minute

until the second half kicks off. Where do you see this one going?

my experience in these finals and games with the big Irish teams, you

have two stay in the game. It is still an away game for Ulster but

the support is fantastic. It is a shame they gave away those three

points at the end. But if they can stay within a score, as the Ospreys

have shown in finals, stay within one score, in the last ten minutes,

then they have the firepower to score and do it. Will Leinster beat

witching a little bit? They have been in this situation before.

but they have plenty of experience. They know how to finish these things

off in Europe. Ulster cannot rely on the wind. It will be an advantage

for them but I think Leinster if anything may be more dangerous into

the wind because they will not kick it as much. It is finely poised.

Yes, it is finely poised, genuinely exciting here. Time to get back to

half is about to kick off. We can return to our commentary team,

Jonathan Davies and Gareth Charles. Yes, it is as you are for the two

teams. 40 minutes of this season left to decide who will be

champions. Leinster in a fourth consecutive play-off final. They

have lost all three. Now, they are halfway towards winning one. That

was a great restart by Jonathan Sexton. Brilliant restart. It hung

up in the wind. Ten points, you know, Leinster, that's a big call.

But if they score first, Ulster, kick downfield. Nick Williams having

to carry. They do not want to be And she goes. Tom Court gets off on

a Trumbull. Basher rumble. Tommy in hand. But again, great defensive

work at the breakdown by Leinster. think they are actually winning the

breakdown battle. They wanted to take it quickly. But I think Ian

Madigan has taken a knock in that his left foot. He doesn't get hurt

in the tackle, I think it is when he gets up, he takes a knock to the

season. Picked up a couple of Ireland in the Six Nations against

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silverware but not a domestic trophy They will play, but they know they

have got the insurance of a penalty, and that is very capable.

it was a long advantage being played. He never called advantage

over. Oh! Big decision.Is it a word feet in the tackle area. They have

struggled in the tackle area, haven't they? They have been totally

dominated by the Leinster boys. The men in front of us, not very happy.

We thought for aim second it might have been a minor Dylan Hartley

moment, saying something to the referee after the long hold of the

advantage, but it wasn't - it was for the initial offence. There has

been repeated offending at the breakdown, the yellow card is

Ulster. -- tougher. Down to 14 men left Johnny Sexton's boot. For the

first time, the gap goes beyond ten. The one thing about Leinster, they

was a spectacular take! He was cycling in midair to get under that

off the mark. Oh, great step by Jackson, he is clean through, which

way is he going to go?! Dragged back by the throat more less reclamation

a red card. If anything, it is a yellow. I would like to have a look

at it again, he caught him by the collar. Hang on, the linesman as

brilliant break by Jackson. Yes, great break, they should have been

support either side of him. If he had had support, they would have

way the game is going now, that is a yellow card. Three simple points for

Ruan Pienaar, and again, every time again for Leinster, who lost Rob

Carney just before kick-off, now temporarily they have lost his

wins and a draw, 81 points. Not far behind were Leinster, 17 wins, 78

points. Fair play, Glasgow, they gave everybody a run for their

money, just tipped in the semifinal, the play-off, 17-15 by

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nose of Trimble, that was such a physical final. I will tell

you what, though, the Leinster second row carries the ball well,

doesn't it? So does Brian hands of Stuart Olding. The kick and

chase is on, but good covering by Madigan. Have a guess who is

coming. Tommy Bowe speeding up, and he has got his man! That was

brilliant from Tommy Bowe but equally good from Madigan. He is a

good player, I will tell you what! Tommy Bowe, Ulster love him, and why

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up? Anyway, the result is a penalty. of the Ulster supporters as Ruan

Pienaar gets a full, bringing them to within a converted try again.

will tell you what, it is game on now, with this windy you would be

very happy but with a half hour to go, ten points behind. -- seven

isn't it? The percentage game. Here is the man who makes the right call

at the right time, Ruan Pienaar. This is the Leinster experience

coming out, eating away into that time, there is no rush, no panic.

Sexton just slowing it down, going for that role, to be honest. He has

one. He really gets over the gain the slip from Conway works out

perfectly, now Ulster are getting the rub of the green, which they

didn't in the first half. Cheeky little ball from Rory Best inside.

You know when you get momentum swings, the bounce of the ball goes

with you and everything, it has got that feeling, hasn't it? I think

Rory Best goes inside here, here we someone who has done it himself!

think you have to do it. I scored a try like that once. He nearly killed

Ulster supporters as well. Every time they get down in this

territory, the flags are up, everybody is up on their feet, they

are waving, they are making a noise, and that is really sparing them on.

-- sparing. This is a big kick. would go to the corner, you have

still got to score a try, you have got the extra man, it is not an easy

click, and I would go for the corner, go for the drive. They are

on top, they have got the momentum. It would be a gamble but one worth

taking. Robbie Diack is back on the That is five, and this is the

closest it has been now since the opening stages. Phil, back down to

you. We made the point at the top of the programme about Leinster's

confidence but they have lost the last three of these Pro12 finals,

and what will that be in their heads? There has got to be some

nagging doubt, we have seen what they did at Heineken to level, but

they have not been able to put these games away, and the more Ulster

stake in there, the way Pienaar is going, the tide is turning Ulster's

way. How crucial is the next score? It is huge, Leinster have been

clinical early on, but he was unfairly sin-binned, the momentum

has swung the other way. I tell you what, the marvellous Ulster fans are

complement. But it has hurt Leinster. Three penalties in that

ten minute period. That has brought Brian O'Driscoll finds Jamie Heaslip

on the inside ball. Shane Jennings finds Isa Nacewa on the inside ball.

And Shane Jennings gets good yardage. Kevin McLaughlin, head

down, determined running, this is he has popped up pretty much

everywhere this afternoon. Mike Ross dragged down by Ruan Pienaar. Isaac

Boss has a look to see who is available. Kevin McLaughlin leads

the way again. They have got to keep their discipline, Ulster. Great

little dummy. That was Rory Best again, just got him. Knock on.

Bodies are really being put on the line. Those small margins are so

important. Rory Best, as usual, 100%. They keep sending Ian Madigan

up. They have missed Sean O'Brien today. Ruan Pienaar was there

covering. And again, it didn't happen in the first half, knock on.

But it happened there. They have to hold their scrum now, good ball and

clear their lines. For once, I think Jonathan Sexton was wishing he

wasn't wearing one of these non-rip jerseys. Otherwise, he could have

blue to show their support. Leo the Lion trying to gee up the home

REFEREE: Head and shoulders this site, both

battlefield. Never mind what you have been doing in the loose, all

the tackles, when it comes to scrum time, you have got to get your scrum

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 58 seconds

I quite look the -- like the look of Jonathan Sexton. Clever running from

was no need for that. I know it is tempting but he had lost the ball.

That is an easy penalty. This is a tough kick. The wind is against. But

you are right. They have defended very well. No penetration

whatsoever. Not really going referee made that call. Peter

Fitzgibbon was on his way back to the 22. Let's have a look. It will

be interesting to see the ball in glowing Leinster's way. Good take by

Leo Cullen but he is driven back well by the Ulster pack. Jamie he

slipped, Isaac Boss, calling the orders. Cian Healy is in charge at

come. Penalty.Shane Jennings. Brian O'Driscoll, cannot quite slip

through. Desperate defence from Ulster, right on their own try

line. It's still a penalty advantage. Leo Cullen, the skipper.

This could be the longest advantage ever. Jamie Heaslip. Looks like he

may well have got the drive. And congratulations of his team-mates

but is all down to the television Devin Toner. That has got to be a

try. There is no way he cannot give that. What a response from Leinster.

But it all goes back to that silly penalty by Chris Henry on the

halfway line. A great kick by Jonathan Sexton, in fairness. But

Schmidt, the Leinster coach. consequences of a silly little hand

in there on the halfway line. You're on your try line by a great kick

from Jonathan Sexton and chasing the game once again. There's plenty of

time left. I'm sure Ulster will still be arguing the toss whether

pulled just to the left. But nine points ahead, Leinster. Just over 15

minutes remaining. It is a real ask now for Ulster to get back into this

one. So clinical, going through the phases and eventually it tells. But

He wasn't running onto that one. pass was in front of him. A lack of

communication. That is a dying for Robbie Diack. And Mike Allen is

on as well for Ulster. They are just trying to rejig things, see if

anything can pull this game from the marshalled. Fergus McFadden followed

him every inch of the way. You can see what they were trying to do.

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one fairly soon, this game is really ball anywhere on the field. Yes,

they are. They're keeping the -- taking the sting out of the game.

That's all they need to do now, Leinster, is keep the ball and soak

up time. Great angle by Richards is. And the pick-up from Ian Madigan,

standing start, he generates great Ruan Pienaar? Rory Best has been

talking to Phil Steele. He was once compared to Andy Irvine. Compared to

Andy Irvine, he was rubbish. Is this within range? We have seen him kick

some important long-distance ones. Again, over 150 points in the league

this season. And this is a big kick to spare, that is a quite

converted try. They know what it is to lose games late on, as they did

against the Ospreys last year. I wonder if that will be nagging in

the back of their minds somewhere. they do from this line-out, because

one option is to click, but he put doesn't need to offload! He tried

Apology for the loss of subtitles for 58 seconds

them both on. He has come off second-best twice now, but he took

hands time again for the Ulster in front of him. But you have got to

take those. Big ten minutes coming up now, Ulster have got to play

their game in the right areas now. I am not sure they have got maybe the

pace or creativity, you know, to go from distance. They have not shown

any of it yet, but any thing near Nick Williams, they have got to

start thinking of field position. There is a break in play, let's go

down to pitch side, Phil. A 6-point game, eight minutes left, call this

one now! It is a very tight one, I am going to go with Leinster, I

think they are going to break their duck. You can feel it coming down to

one score again, Devin Toner has had an amazing game, they are losing

valuable line-out scores, but they are going to have a big impact. I

think there is a confidence within the Leinster camp, but the longer

the game goes on, they are playing in their own territory, they have to

finish the game at the Ulster 22. Gareth, back to you. Callum Black is

on on this side of the scrum for Ulster, and as Paul was saying,

Quinn Roux in the second row for Devin Toner. It is tough to get up

to speed in a game such as this. Oh, great footwork from McFadden, he

matter how big or strong you are... is the difference. Big scrum, this

is now, they need to build and get into position. Six minutes left,

they can't afford, I don't think, to maybe lose the ball, because as

Martyn said, Leinster are so comfortable, just keeping on the

are they going to do if they get a penalty now, force extra time if it

ended 24-24? That is a big if! A try and they will still need the

conversion. Stop the clock now, he should stop the clock, I think.

Ulster! Leinster are very clever. Leinster are quite happy if the

This time Nick Williams for speed play, it is a terrible mess for

Ulster. That ball isn't out, is it? better than we thought. Brilliant,

just to stay on with a hamstring 20 seconds to go, a 6-point game,

what do you do, John? I think they will go for goal. I'm not sure what

I would do. No, they are going for it. That is a great call, that is.

They do not think they will have enough time, let's go for it.

one of the great exponents of gold digging in Ulster and Ireland

colours is ahead of us, and he is not sure. I am not sure as well. I

do think, Ruan Pienaar, the wind is against him here, so they made sure

he got in, that is the first thing, they made sure that the ball crossed

the touchline, but he did not make the yard that he wanted to make.

the final few minutes. Ulster going for glory. They don't want the

chance of a draw and extra time, but again Rory Best can't hear the call,

such as the clamour from this pact RDS crowd. Johann Muller, the

defensively, I tell you! Two minutes now remaining for Ulster, a try will

give them a chance to win it. Leinster hanging on for the alive.

They get the decision! It is greeted by howls of derision from the Ulster

supporters, and relief from the Leinster people. Well, he has been

consistent, hasn't he? The ball goes walk to the touchline, and then the

efficiency of the Leinster line-out, they will just close this

use every available second. And that will bring full-time, and the

RaboDirect Pro12 championship ever nearer. Shane Jennings has been

awarded man of the match. It was his try early on that took them on the

way. The ball won, and Shane Jennings latches on. Isaac Boss

driving this forward is into Ulster Leinster pack. Now they go to

ground, and Madigan sprints, he will not want to do anything too

foolish, not get too far away from those forwards. The crowd will start

counting down pretty soon. This is what they will do, it won't go wide,

no need. Five seconds left. Isaac Boss has already have turned towards

the touchline, he knows that the game is there, the championship is

there. One more, just in case. McLaughlin took it on. 20 seconds

left on the clock in the stadium. That is the only clock the players

time is up. This will be it for Leinster. They are already

celebrating in the stands, they just need somebody to put the ball off

the park, and who else but Brian O'Driscoll?! So often the Leinster

hero, and that the fourth time of asking, they have finally done it,

four final play-offs in a row, three defeats, but now Leinster can add to

the Amlin Challenge Cup the, because they have become RaboDirect Pro12

champions in 2013! What a battle, though! They are all out on their

feet, and the first ten minutes was absolutely crucial, you know, they

started off like a house on fire, and all of a sudden Ulster came

back. They should have had a penalty try, and then they should have

scored a try, so they should have been leading after 20 minutes, and

then with the wind at their backs in the second half, they should have

been more comfortable. One referee decision and one squandered

opportunity really had a massive effect on this match, but you know,

two great sides, and an absolutely amazing battle. Joe Schmidt has done

it, he is departing, he is going to be coaching Ireland from now on, but

he has left Leinster with some serious silverware. They have

completed the double this year. They couldn't hang on to their European

title, but they picked out the Amlin by beating Stade Francais, and now

they have repeated it in a real hard-fought match. Ulster gave it

absolutely everything and never, never lay down. As I said, those two

instances, you know, where the difference. But I did feel that, you

know, Leinster scored a couple of tries, and they just couldn't break

the Leinster defence. It was Leinster who had the two tries,

Shane Jennings and Jamie Heaslip, six penalties from Ruan Pienaar were

not enough for Ulster. Leinster victorious by 24-18. Phil, down to

you in the middle of the celebrations! The atmosphere is

wonderful. It was ferocious at pitch side. What was the difference?

thought the Leinster defence was superb at the physicality they

brought at the breakdown was just outstanding. But try by Heaslip, the

workrate from Devin Toner, slightly more intelligent play from Leinster

and the creativity from Jonathan Sexton. But it was a 15 man

performance. Shane Jennings was the man of the match but it could have

gone to any of the 15. How did Rory Best go? He had a great game.

Physicality, his work at the breakdown is exceptional and he

seems to be omnipresent. He is like having another number seven. And

also the scrum went very well for Ulster. I think Rory Best is a big

part of that. This is the story of penalties to give Leinster a 16-6

halftime lead. Both sides saw yellow in the second half.

The tide did start to turn after that with Ruan Pienaar urging Ulster

ever closer. Jamie he slips try seemed to have won it for Leinster

dash-macro three. Brian O'Driscoll was the man who kicked the ball into

game. Deserved winners, Leinster? think so in the end. A phenomenal

advert for the Pro12. But it was the defence of Leinster. Brian

O'Driscoll Sunder Dub at the end, he got skinned by Darren Cave but then

he made two tackles. Disappointment etched on the fans faces behind you.

Any right to feel aggrieved? I am sure that they will but I agree that

it was a great advert for the Pro12. I have been lucky enough to

experience this. Ironically, Leinster go and do it from second

position. I am happy for Joe Schmidt. He has done a great job

here. It also played their part today and it was a fantastic final.

An European and domestic 44 Leinster. Yes, they would have been

disappointed in the Heineken cup, especially with the Heineken cup

final being in Dublin. But to pick yourself up after that, they play

the game in the right way. You do feel for Ulster. They gave

everything today. Ulster were the number one seeds. But that is the

play-offs. It is knockout rugby. Yes, it's all about getting in the

top four. You get in there and then you fight and then the best team

will come to the top over the course of the season. I think the depth of

the squad is really showed this season, along with Glasgow. Both

sides have got near an affair strong -- have got their strongest teams

available to play the final. Shane Jennings , a fantastic

performance. They are very good at the breakdown. Rory Best is very

tough at the breakdown. A tough competition against him today. A lot

of credit goes to Ulster. They have had a fantastic season. It was a

good game today and we are delighted to come out the right side of it.

The atmosphere was fantastic. Brilliant. We are glad we came out

the right side. We won the coveted final here together in 2001, a long

time ago. What is it mean to come back after those three very hurtful

finals and actually pulling off a double, what does that mean to the

squad? It is a squad effort. Genuinely, that has driven us. We

were in fits and starts over the cause of the season and thankfully,

we can go towards the end. It is nice to be on the winning side.

done. Both sets of supporters making their feelings known. A very

passionate bunch on either side. We can cross back to the commentary

Irvine, not in Lions capacity, but as the chairman of Celtic rugby, and

it will be disappointment for Johann Muller and his Ulster team but not a

single Ulster supporter has left. They want to greet their heroes for

what has been an excellent season for them. Falling just short, losing

out in the quarter-final stage in Iraq. And then losing out in the

play-off final, the grand final penalty try decision and the missed

opportunity by Robbie Diack, I thought those were crucial moments

in the match. And they could just not breach the Leinster defence

after that, unfortunately. They kicked their goals well. But I have

to say, Shane Jennings had none of the match but I thought that Devin

Toner, that is the best game I have ever seen him play -- man of the

match. It would have been difficult. You could have picked anyone from

both sides to be man of the match. But if there was a difference, it

would be interesting to see the amount of decisions, penalties that

went in Leinster's favour at the breakdown. Maybe that was the

crucial part of the game and that is why Shane Jennings had man of the

match. But amazing support by these two sets of fans. Irish rugby may

not be as successful at international level as they would

have hoped but they do love their rugby and the regional game and they

come out and support it. They make it an occasion, a great atmosphere.

I do think they are investing in it. They have a lot of Irish players

but if the Welsh regions and the Welsh Rugby union are listening,

look at the quality of the overseas players. They bolster the side. Yes,

you want to bring the youngsters through, you want to play

international games, but the reason Wales are cutting. . . If you are

winning at any level, you are successful. At long last, the

players of Leinster have winners medals around their necks. And the

Leinster support that the RDS in Dublin can cheer the champions. They

have gone to Europe and they have won the major trophy, they have won

the secondary trophy, but as far as the homespun competition is

concerned, the cupboard has been bear for a number of seasons. And

every seasons -- every single squad member getting a medal. That is the

trophy they have been battling for. Brian O'Driscoll has decided to stay

on for one more season. It is the parting of the waves with Isa Nacewa

going. And of course, the coach, Joe Schmidt as well. And the nonplaying

squad members joining them. Leinster champions in 2002, champions in

2008. And then after making the play-off final three times in a row

and coming up just short, now they are going to be crowned champions

again. Heaslip's try the big difference at the end. And Leo

Cullen, he has put in so many years. He keeps going. And it is Heaslip

who has the pleasure of lifting the trophy high into the air. Much to

the delight of the Leinster crowd. They realise how much they had to

battle for it. And they have completed an European and domestic

double this season. Joe Schmidt will be leaving on a very successful

note. Leinster Amlin Challenge Cup champions and Leinster champions of

the Celtic league as well. Yes. There is the man himself, Joe

Schmidt. He will be in charge of Ireland. He will be trying to

transfer what he has achieved at regional level to national level.

And a few of these boys will be thinking of a summer in Australia,

they will be doing so on a very happy note. I think it will be a

very quiet night in Dublin tonight. I think it will be very quiet.

Ulster supporters will play their part as well, even though they are

disappointed at the moment. They gave it everything but they came up

just short. And Leinster with two tries to nil will be extremely

satisfied at getting their names and -- then a mama trophy again. -- then

this Leinster side. So successful over recent years. They are still

one of the best sides in Europe. Why are they so good and why have they

sustained it? How have they sustained it? I think Jonathan hit

the nail on the heading commentary. They have quality overseas players.

I have been to the Leinster training camp, the facilities, the

resources, the backing financially that they have is phenomenal. The

amount of coaches we saw on the pitch, developing individual skills,

not just match day but throughout the season and they mix that in with

a good academy development system. The young players come through.

Players like Fergus McFadden, Cian Healy, these players don't get

mentioned too much, but they are the guys coming through, ably supported

by the likes of Isa Nacewa. And then you have Brian O'Driscoll, the mix

is right. However, there is an investment. The Irish players are

rested sufficiently. Joe Schmidt coaching Leinster for the last time

today. He is with Phil Steele. does this count today, your last

game. Yes, a few of the guys going. It's great to have the victory. Isa

Nacewa switch to fullback. He is getting a little bit older because

he played just 70 minutes today. But it was good to have him there.

news on the Rob Kearney hamstring? It is a little bit like Sean

O'Brien. I think if there was nothing to follow, they both would

have played. But you work so hard to get an opportunity to get to

Australia to play for the Lions, so many of these players have helped

them get their and I think it is fantastic that they get to do that

fully fit and I am looking forward to watching the series, to be

honest. You were impressed with the back row. Yes, rotating the squad,

it has all come good. The double must be a great pleasure, all the

planning seemed to go right on track. In the second half, I thought

we got some good pressure. There were a couple of passes, intercepted

those offloads, in the second half, we were looking to carry but I don't

care now, to be honest. I am just glad to win. The physicality at the

breakdown was amazing. And the defence. Leinster wanted it so much.

I am massively proud of the defence. We did very little attack this

week. We just said, let's not them cross our line at home. I thought

the boys did a fantastic job of doing exactly that. There were a

couple of hairy moments but they held tough. We will miss you in the

Pro12. Weldon on your achievements and good luck with the island job.

Thank you. I know you don't really mean that. Thank you. A very happy

man, what has his contribution been to Leinster? What he has done is

seamless, he can leave boys out, like Cian Healy on the bench,

missing Brian, Rob Kearney, the youngsters coming, and it is

seamless. That is the sign of a very well coached side. What he has done

for this region and as provinces and nominal. We heard about how they

concentrate on defence during the week, that was evident, it was

watertight, despite wave after wave of attack. It was, and it was last

week in the Amlin final as well, and of the top teams in the Pro12,

Leinster have conceded the most tries. It's just goes to show they

peek at the right time, and when they have got their best boys in and

there's something on it, they are thoroughly deserved winners.

Ulster boys did a lap of honour themselves, and most of the fans

have stayed behind to cheer their boys on, disappointing for them, but

what can they take from the season, Martyn? This was probably the first

year they had a realistic terms of winning something, it has not come

off, but if they keep Ruan Pienaar, Luke Marshall coming back, the young

group of players, they will be there or thereabouts. Like Leinster in the

past, they will learn from these final losses. Are they on the verge

of winning something special? are very close, Heineken Cup last

year, this final, and the balance of Muller, Pienaar, Tommy Bowe, Payne,

the balance is there with the young talent, so there are lessons to be

learned for Welsh rugby there. that point, both of you have alluded

to that, and Jonathan did in commentary, what can the Welsh

regions learn from the Irish provinces? , Martyn? It is what

Jonathan said. You cannot build your side on international players,

because they are hardly ever there. You need to sign quality overseas

players. That is the fulcrum of your side. Look at Leinster and Ulster,

they have done exactly the same over the years. You would not win Grand

Slams otherwise, making those smart signings. We can go back to film, I

believe Rory Best is with him. Commiserations, you could have got a

man of the match if you had been in the winning side, what was the

difference between the sides in your opinion? I think it is probably the

breakdown. We talked all week, probably since the Saracens game in

Europe that we needed to be the better team on the day at the

breakdown, and I think the penalty count was fairly substantial.

Leinster probably did not infringe less than us, but they will more

streetwise about it, and that is what the top teams do. When you give

a kicker like Johnny that many chances, he will not miss, and that

proved to be the case today. They have four visits to our 22 in the

first half and came away with four scores. Ultimately, that was the

difference. Wally has got some news that might be of interest to you.

The talk is that Dylan Hartley has got a red carded a four speed in to

the referee, it also looks like you might get a possible ban after your

performance today, Rory, a lot of us thought you should be on the flight

to Australia, are you changing your plans? I think it is hard to process

anything outside of Ulster at the minute. We are bitterly

disappointed. Everything else at the minute is probably a bit of a

sideshow, we want to focus in on ourselves, we have 35 men in our

squad, plus the management. We are bitterly disappointed with losing

this match. Whatever comes out tomorrow et cetera we will deal

with, but it is not that, we are focusing on losing a hard-fought

battle today. If you get on the plane, all the best, and well done

on your performance today. Commiserations to Rory Best, another

fantastic individual performance, and we will watch with interest what

happens with Dylan Hartley. We talked about how Ulster turned the

tide in the second half following the yellow cards, one man at the

heart of it was Ruan Pienaar, just nudging the ball into the right

areas. So commanding, . This guy does not like playing Number Ten,

and he certainly made a difference with his boot, three penalties,

long-range efforts, difficult kicks, but they kept Ulster in touch. We

said at halftime this would be important, and this is the man that

keeps in touch, but he did not have enough to get over the line. As you

mentioned, Martyn, as long as they have got guys like him, they are

only inches away from winning trophies. Sorry, I must interrupt,

Leo Cullen has just joined Phil. That was some performance today.

Yeah, listen, we knew it was going to be a bit of a battle today, we

got off to a really good start with a try in the first couple of

minutes. We were always a bit ahead but we could not push on. Ulster are

a very doggy steam, and they have had an outstanding season, always

knew it would be tough. -- Doggett team. Your man there was impressed.

You have won three Heineken Cup, but what does this mean, the real bread

and butter competition? The last game of the season here last year,

we lost against the Ospreys, and I can remember everyone on the grass

at the end, and even though we had won the Heineken, it led a bitter

taste in our mouths. To have that feeling all summer long and be able

to sort of leave off year, some of the guys have moved on, and to leave

with happy memories is brilliant. You do not need is a this, but have

a good night! We will try our best! He will not need any encouragement.

A Leinster stole what celebrating his win. Let's go back to the match,

many key moments in that, perhaps the biggest was that Jamie Heaslip

discipline. Yes, he was lucky in the first half not to get yellow carded,

and then he gave this penalty away. There was some debate over this,

Peter Fitzgibbon on the line, the referee gave it. Just after the two

yellow carded players came back on the field, O'Driscoll and Heaslip

stepped up to the plate. Devin Toner had a great game, latching on and

getting over the line. Ultimately, that was the difference. We saw

Devin Toner just getting stuck into Jamie, driving him over the line,

real passion. So impressed, they all seem... Everybody knows what they

are supposed to be doing, where they are supposed to be, going through

the phases, and eventually you will run out of defenders. That was the

difference, they took their chances when they had them. We had a look at

Ruan Pienaar, we talked about him and Jonathan Sexton being two of the

best controllers of the game in the northern hemisphere, and it was

Sexton's running game and distribution which has nailed him on

for the Lions spot. He has become a far more complete player, they

identified something in the Ulster defence, he kicked well, his

restarts were good, he had a pump on the shoulder early on but he muscled

through it. At the end of the day, a quality performance that he would

want to have put on for Joe Schmidt and his crowd as he leaves for

France. I think we can return to Phil Steele, not just yet, but

hopefully we will get a word with Brian O'Driscoll in a minute. Tommy

Bowe, a friend of yours from your spray days, a potent attacking

force, he never gave up. -- Ospreys. He was hungry, looking for it all of

the time, looking sharp, he made inroads in the first half and was

always hungry on the shoulder, running the inside, but this chase

down of the box kick and the long kicks that Ruan Pienaar was putting

in showed how much you wanted Ulster to win today. Did he give you a wave

when he wandered past? He blanked him! Unbelievable, once and Osprey!

We were watching this game in the context of the lines, they fly to

Hong Kong on Monday, who have we seen today that enhanced their

credentials? Nobody did themselves any harm. To be honest with you, the

coaches know what they are going to get at this time of year, Rory Best,

if he does find his way on there, outstanding, Cian Healy, looking for

the miracle 50-50 sometimes. And Brian O'Driscoll, what more can you

say, an absolute legend? Heaslip as well, they will going full of

confidence, probably a bit hungover when they meet the boys tomorrow,

but it will be well worth it. have been on three Lions tours, and

in this week, the build-up, just about to get on the plane, some of

the boys have been in the camp for weeks, you must be so excited.

is nothing worse as a player than no game at the end of the week, you

just want that carrot at the end, so the boys who have been encamped,

predominantly the Welsh boys, 15 missing with the English final, they

will want to get on that plane to Hong Kong, get the whole group

together, which is what the coaches will be dying for. It is looking

like a majority of a Welsh 15 against the bar bars next week, but

when they meet up tomorrow, it is the most exciting time as a player.

Just from the players' point of view, , I will interrupt myself

because Brian O'Driscoll is with Phil Steele. Many congratulations,

you have done everything in the game that there is to do, but how much

does winning things with the province mean to you? This is

everything. About seven years, I thought about going to pastures new,

it did not feel as if our set-up was right. We changed everything, and

Joe Schmidt has really grown that, and I think it means so much more

when you win with your home province, being able to do it. It is

not a technically, but it is home for us, great support, great to

reward them for all their backing of us. You have got another year left,

how are you going to top this? nice to finish, you work for the

whole year to finish on notes like this, and I guess the way of topping

it is to do it again next year. It is always harder to retain things

than win them out right. It seems like yesterday that in 2001 we were

winning the inaugural trophy together, you were outstanding that

day. How are you feeling? The body looking good, a big month head of

view, a big couple of months going to Australia, body in good nick,

staying for another year, maybe two? Not two years, it is just one year,

no point in getting into that now. I did not play over the last three

weeks, but I felt fresh out there, and it is a great feeling to win at

home. Have a great tour, thank you for talking to us. Only one more

year, you heard it first from us on scrum 5 Live. Brian O'Driscoll has

done everything he can. He has made it clear that he wants to go on a

fourth two, phenomenal to get four, so he wants to be a winning Lions

tourist. 2-1? 3-0. What about you, Lions prediction? A couple of months

ago I would have said 3-0, but these Aussies are waiting for us, I think

2-1, Lions. Thank you for your company this afternoon and all

season. That is the last programme of the season, the Lions are next,

but from us today it is massive congratulations to Leinster at the

RDS, commiserations to Ulster, who came, fought and played a very big