Donal Lenihan: French options for the Six Nations are so bountiful compared to Ireland's 

The problem with Munster's high octane intensity is it will only take them so far and can’t be delivered on every outing. At their best, Munster are a match for all comers but not yet at a level where they can compete consistently with top French sides.

MERCURIAL: La Rochelle’s Simeli Daunivucu. Pic: Morgan Treacy/Inpho

At long last, contests worthy of the rich history around Champions Cup rugby. From an Irish perspective Leinster’s clash against La Rochelle was spellbinding. A rollercoaster ride from start to finish.

Further afield, Bristol Bears’ incredible win over the Bulls in a 110-point scorefest, yielding 16 tries in Pretoria, was riveting in a different way as was holders Bordeaux-Begles’ comprehensive 50-28 win over English Prem leaders Northampton in a repeat of last year’s final.