Nacewa seals win fo Leinster

Madrid: Leinster were crowned Champions Cup winners for the fourth time yesterday after they edged Racing 92 15-12 in a tense contest in Bilbao.

A late Isa Nacewa penalty proved the difference in a try-less encounter, with Jonathan Sexton kicking nine points for the Irish side.

In reply the impressive Teddy Iribaren kicked 12 points as Racing came agonisingly close to denying the Irish outfit at San Mames Stadium.

Leinster were well contained in the opening half as the French team made the breakdown a real contest, which impacted on the Irish side’s ability to unleash their backs. It was a real shock to Leo Cullen’s side as the pre-game heavy favourites went into the break drawing 6-6. Racing were superb in the physical exchanges and despite losing Dan Carter before kick-off and then Pat Lambie on three minutes, they put in an excellent first-half showing. Halfback Iribaren was at the forefront of it as his game management and goalkicking was impressive.

Iribaren’s fourth minute penalty nudged Racing in front but Sexton responded after an offside on 16 minutes following a Nacewa break.

Leinster though would then sack a Racing maul on 21 minutes which allowed Iribaren another chance to convert points, which he did calmly. Leinster were clearly upset as they were not enjoying the same speed of ball they did in the semi-final, with Sexton’s decision to quick tap a kickable penalty that was soon turned over a sign they were rattled. Fortunately for Sexton though he did make it 6-6 on 38 minutes.