Johnny Sexton loved the ruthlessness on display from Leinster at the Aviva Stadium as they booked their place in the Champions Cup final.
Sexton produced a man of the match display in his first appearance in five weeks as he orchestrated a three-try defeat of Top 14 leaders Toulouse today.
Asked what pleased him the most about the 30-12 victory over the Red and Blacks, the 33-year-old replied: “The ruthless element to it.
"We know they can score tries from anywhere and to be able to keep building on the lead was very impressive by us and something we spoke about at half-time.
"I’m delighted with everyone, I’m so proud to play for this team and I’m sure our supporters will fill Newcastle’s stadium in a few weeks as well."
Sexton added: “It’s amazing, it’s amazing for all of these supporters here today.
"To go to another Heineken Cup is dream come true stuff. I never thought I’d play in one, never mind five and throw a Challenge Cup in there as well.
“It’s special, but we don’t play to get to finals, we play to try and win stuff. Hopefully we can go one step further."
One step further would mean becoming the first club to win the Heineken Champions Cup five times. To do that, Leinster must beat the 2016-17 champions Saracens in the decider in Newcastle on May 11.
The out-half said: “We spoke a little bit about that, not too much, but we knew Toulouse had four stars on their jersey but at the same time Sarries have two and if they win they won’t be far behind us.
“We saw yesterday how they dominated Munster and we know how tough a side Munster are. So, we’ll be up against it but we’ll prepare now for the biggest battle of our careers."
And his own performance, as he returned from a quad injury? “Yeah, a mixed bag," said the Dubliner.
"During the week I felt like I was cramming for a big exam, I haven’t trained in a few weeks so I had to fit in a lot of work during the week.
“I probably tried to do a little bit too much during the week, I’m just delighted to be in another final".
Leinster 30-12 Toulouse: The Blues march to Champions Cup final to defend their title
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