O’Brien focus now on Munster mission

SEVEN years ago, Brian O’Driscoll talked dismissively about England’s ‘so-called world champions in their so-called fortress’ after Ireland grabbed a win at Twickenham — so he will understandMunster’s mindset this week.

Numerous Leinster players have spoken in the past about how they were unable to watch when Munster claimed their Heineken Cups in 2006 and 2008.

But it is hard to imagine any of Tony McGahan’s men closing their eyes and ears two days ago. The sight of Leinster parading the cup at the RDS yesterday will have added further fuel to the sense of mission that the home team will surely bring to Thomond Park for next Saturday’s Magners League grand final.

The question now is what effect — mental and physical — the game against Northampton will have on Leinster.

However, the usual knocks and bruises aside, there were no injury worries reported from inside the camp yesterday.

“It’s another challenge and it’s going to be an exciting week ahead,” said Leinster’s marauding flanker Sean O’Brien, whose Carlow home place boasts considerable followers of the red and blue tribes.

“We will enjoy this and regroup on Monday and take it from there.”

Having emulated Munster with their second Heineken Cup, Leinster now have the opportunity to tick a box left blank by their neighbours if they can achieve the Magners/Heineken double.

Motivation abounds on both sides.