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O`Connell knows Munster got lucky

Monday 28th April 2008

Lucky escape: O'Connell's towering display helped Munster sneak into the Final

Munster captain Paul O'Connell knows his side were lucky to make it into the Heineken Cup final at the expense of a plucky Saracens outfit.

O'Connell, who as named man-of-the-match, will now lead his side into what many are already dubbing as 'The Dream Final' against Toulouse.

But Munster, who will look to claim their second title in three years, were made to fight for their very Heineken Cup existence by Saracens. In the end Munster held on for a dramatic 18-16 victory, although Saracens will rue several missed chances late on.

"That was probably too close for comfort but we have worked very hard on our defence and it has improved a great deal," O'Connell said.

"We were under a lot of pressure there but we soaked it up.

"They are a fine team with serious players and there was a lot of emotion attached to that game.

"It was Richard Hill's last opportunity for silverware and then there's Alan Gaffney so we're very happy.

"We scored two very good tries, Quinny's (Alan Quinlan) having a very good season and his try was great.

"As far as the final goes, we're delighted to be heading back to Cardiff. Our matches with Toulouse in the past have all been massive encounters and this one will be no different."