Head coach Leo Cullen hit out at the press after Leinster booked a place in the Investec Champions Cup final with a narrow win over Toulon in Dublin.
The normally measured Irishman cut a frustrated figure in his post-match press conference on Saturday following the 29-25 result, accusing critics of being too quick to “throw the boot into” Leinster whenever results go against them.
Cullen’s troops appeared in complete control at the Aviva Stadium after tries from Jack Conan, Josh van der Flier, Garry Ringrose and captain Caelan Doris opened a commanding lead.
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But six-time European cup champions Toulon launched a fierce late comeback via Baptiste Serin and Gael Dréan to leave the hosts clinging on until the final whistle.
Cullen referenced last season’s Champions Cup last-four defeat to Northampton Saints: “We were sitting in this room this time last year,” Cullen said.
“We were in that situation and we were throwing everything at Northampton. [Henry] Pollock gets a poach … it should have been a penalty. Like I said, it’s clearly illegal, but nobody talked about it after. Just wanted to kick the boot into us, don’t you?
“But that’s the way it goes.”
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The former Ireland lock took another swipe at the assembled journalists. “Because, listen, you guys love throwing the boot into us when things don’t go well,” he said.
“Well, listen, whatever sells, obviously, because you read plenty of it.
“The courage that the players show, you know, it’s testament to the group.”
Leinster now switch focus to the Vodacom URC, where the club face the Lions next week before preparing for a ninth Champions Cup final appearance.
Photo: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile via Getty Images
