Jubilant Leinster fans toast Heineken Cup glory
19:00, 19 May 2012
Leinster rugby fans pledged to drink London dry tonight after their team clinched the Heineken Cup at Twickenham.
Ulster supporters were left desolate after their side's brave challenge to clinch a second European title ended in disappointment in the competition's first all Ireland final.
But for the thousands of blue and white clad Leinster hordes it was set to be a night to remember as they celebrated the province's third title in four years and two years on the bounce.
Daragh McGinley from Howth in Dublin said it was phenomenal.
"It's incredible to see Leinster defend the title," said the 34-year-old.
"If you'd told me 10 years ago we'd have won three Heineken Cups in four years I would have never in a million years believed you. What a phenomenal achievement."
Fellow Leinster fan Rob Smyth was taking it a bit more in his stride.
"It's getting a bit boring at this stage," joked the 30-year-old.
Dentist Ronan Kavanagh predicted a big night in London and back home in the Irish capital.
"There'll be no milking of the cows in Dublin tonight," he said.
Disappointed Ulster fan Warren Little had been hoping he would be celebrating in his adopted London home.
"It's absolutely gutting that we weren't able to come away with the cup," said the 32-year-old lawyer.
"But we can't fault the boys - they have shown real guts and have put Ulster back in its rightful place as one of Europe's best sides.
"From what I can see of my fellow Ulster fans they're determined to celebrate the success of getting this far and won't let it dampen the spirits too much."
Ryan Wilson from Co Fermanagh had journeyed to Knock in Co Mayo to find a flight to London.
"I am gutted to say the least," he said after the final whistle.
"Heroic performances from both teams but someone had to lose, pity it was us.
"Makes you proud to be Irish. Win or lose we'll hit London town like only the Irish can."
Randal Stronge from Belfast had no time to linger at the stadium to dwell on defeat.
"I am so proud of the effort of the boys," said the London based doctor.
"I can't even go and drown my sorrows now because I am working the night shift tonight."