Clash of titans will be a game to savour

IT IS the right and fitting final, a tantalising, Anglo-Irish showdown between the two dominant forces in modern European rugby. Saracens deserve to be favourites, but there’s not much in it. Yesterday, Leinster were their true selves and Toulouse could not cope with the onslaught. Backed by a large, partisan crowd in Dublin, the holders were powerful, smart, composed and clinical, to set up the ultimate Heineken Champions Cup decider. When Saracens and Leinster meet at St James’ Park in Newcastle in three weeks’ time, it will be a clash of dynasties. The Irish province are trying to win Europe’s marquee tournament for a record fifth time, but Saracens have a third title of their own in their sights and have won eight games out of eight in this imperious campaign. The English champions hold more aces than Leinster, but Leo Cullen’s squad have so much experience of these grand occasions, they will be hard to beat. Leinster have never lost a Champions Cup final, but Saracens will relish trying to break that sequence. For the Gallagher Premiership champions, a league and European double is within reach next month. For the sport, May 11 promises to be a momentous, defining day.