Billy Vunipola brought a triumphant end to a turbulent spring for him by scoring the try which crowned Saracens kings of Europe.
The England No.8 had been the target of boo boys since showing support to homophobic comments made by Australian star Israel Folau. He was reprimanded by club and warned by country at a time of the season when focus is paramount.
But at a sold-out St James’ Park in Newcastle, the 26-year-old repaid all those who stood by him with a massive display as Saracens came from 10 points down to win a third Champions Cup in four years.
“It’s very humbling,” said Vunipola, after being mobbed at the end. “I am truly grateful we have a group of players that love playing for each other.
"It’s not about me and what I stand for. It’s about the team.”
Saracens boss Mark McCall added: “It’s been a complicated five or six weeks for Billy. What we needed for him was to do his talking on the field.”
Here was another example of the indomitable spirit shown by English sporting clubs in Europe this week.
With a minute left of the first half, Saracens were two scores behind, down a man and without both starting props.
Johnny Sexton backs Warren Gatland's attempt to make Lions history in SA in 2021
Maro Itoje paid for successive offside offences as the Londoners scrambled to keep out Rob Kearney. Injured props Mako Vunipola and Titi Lamositele had accompanied him off and within moments Tadhg Furlong powered over for the game’s first try.
Leinster were on fire and in another minute they could pause and recharge. But Saracens would not give them that luxury.
George Kruis made a hit on Johnny Sexton, Jackson Wray forced the penalty and Owen Farrell kicked the points.
Saracens pressure forced Leinster to infringe again. Farrell found touch, his forwards ran the ball up the guts and when it came back, the fly-half flicked a pass to Sean Maitland for the try.
The decisive moment came from Billy Vunipola.
Saracens opted for a penalty scrum in front of the Leinster posts and Vunipola exploded off the back, powering through four tackles to score. He left the field with a sore shoulder, but his job was done.
Brad Barritt picked up man of the match and Alex Goode European player of the year.
