Jamie Heaslip denied that revenge played any part in Leinster's Heineken Cup semi-final victory over Toulouse in Dublin.
Revenge was not a motivating factor for 2009 champions
Jamie Heaslip denied that revenge played any part in Leinster's Heineken Cup semi-final victory over Toulouse in Dublin.
Twelve months ago the Irish side were defending champions and lost 26-16 in the semi-finals to Toulouse at the Stade Municipal, with the French side going on to lift the trophy for a fourth time.
Man of the match Heaslip insisted: "It wasn't a case of it being a revenge mission for us, not at all," he said.
"We've got our goal set on winning the competition and Toulouse just happened to be the team in the semi-final.
"They played some amazing rugby and we didn't play our best, but no guts, no glory.
"Both teams had their purple patches, they forced the ball around, caused a lot of problems and we did too when we got into their 22. I don't think there was much between the teams, and we're just happy to have got past this game."
"It was a fast game and the intensity was high. We have a lot of leaders in that team and that showed in the final minutes. We were just focusing on doing the little jobs, the little details. Trying not to focus on (there being) five minutes left, but just the next job you're doing.
"We're going to have to look at the video because we didn't play as well as we could have done. We'll have to be on top of our game to compete in the final and win this competition."
Shawn Sowerby, who came on as a second half replacement for Toulouse, conceded that Leinster were worthy winners.
Excellent game
"There wasn't much in it. I thought it was an excellent game, well refereed. He (Dave Pearson) allowed both teams to play," said the South African back rower.
"As always in play-off games, it's the team that makes the least amount of mistakes and takes their scoring chances that wins, and that was Leinster today. They really deserved of the victory.
"If you look at the game that Sexton had, he scored a lot of points. We're disappointed we lost, but happy enough with the performance. We have to regroup now and go for the Top 14 title.
"Leinster are a really good side. There are small margins between the top sides, and you saw that today."
