Lancaster: It means so much to all my family

CAPTAIN Isa Nacewa, crowned European player of the year in his final season with the province, booted the match-winning penalty in the 78th minute to put Leinster ahead for the first time.

Nacewa said: “This is for all the fans. It’s a special day so we have to make the most of it. They’re world class. They have the best defence in the competition and at times we had to change our way.

“Thank God that we’ve got Johnny (Sexton) our genius to marshall us around the field and take control. It’s special.”

Sexton hailed the coaching ticket of Stuart Lancaster and Leo Cullen for delivering the province’s first European title since 2012 and Sexton’s fourth.

“We did it the hard way. We couldn’t get going at all during the game. Every time we got into there 22 the ball was killed,” Sexton said.

“It was very greasy and they came out and slowed us down at the ruck and that’s obviously the way to beat us.

“I can’t believe we’re champions again. I never thought two or three years ago that this was going to happen again. I’m so happy for all those young lads. I’m so happy for all the coaches.

“Stuart Lancaster, what a special coach to come in to do what he’s done and for Leo to have the courage to bring him in. It’s amazing.

“The belief he has instilled in us, the way we train and also the international coaches. These young guys are doing a lot of learning.”

Lancaster denied that this victory was about vindication after how he was treated in England.

“It’s not about vindication. It means a huge amount to my family and friends who all stuck by me in the tough times after the World Cup.

“They never once wavered in their belief about my ability. That’s been the nicest thing, nice for my wife and my son who are here.”