Boudjellal: Munster was toughest test

Toulon’s billionaire owner Mourad Boudjellal yesterday paid tribute to Munster for pushing his troops to the limit in their quest to secure back-to-back Heineken Cup titles.

Boudjellal rarely gives credence to opponents but he was magnanimous in his post-match interview as Toulon sweated for a 24-16 victory over the out and out underdogs.

“May I firstly congratulate Munster on giving us a very good game and say thanks to them; it was probably the toughest game we have played this season. They are a very good side and their tradition in this tournament was proved today.

“I am delighted to have our club reach another final but it took a magnificent display to get the better of a great and very determined Munster team who came here and played with huge spirit and a lot of aggression.”

One of the players at the receiving end of that aggression was Steffon Armitage, who admitted his side had their work cut out for them and that the ultimate result came down to fine margins.

“We just knew it would be a game between big forwards and we just needed to keep working.

“There were only a few occasions in the second half when I felt this was getting too tight but I had the faith in the boys that, when it would come down to it, we would be able to put in the defensive effort which was needed. This was as tough a game as they come and credit to Munster for making us work so hard for our place in the final. Ultimately, I hope it will stand to us that we had to fight so hard for our win.

“Given the way the other semi final went, I suppose no doubt we will need to put in an even bigger performance for the Saracens match. They had a very good, very impressive win at the weekend as well and it will be 50-50 in Cardiff.

“It is some competition, this Heineken Cup. I played in England for eight years and never won anything, I always seemed to get beaten up by everyone so it is good to be on the other side for once and hopefully we can go on do everyone in Toulon proud in the final and show them that we deserve to be here.

“We’re there or thereabouts and in with a chance of being in two finals which would make it a memorable season, and a fitting way to say goodbye to Jonny Wilkinson.”