`A great result for Munster and Irish rugby'

Warren Gatland (Ireland coach, he was present at the match): "I thought it was an outstanding victory, a great result for Munster and Irish rugby. I think it proved for once and all that Ireland teams can now travel to France with justifiable confidence of winning. In the past there was a case whereby teams were in awe of the French opposition: matches were lost before you stepped out on the pitch."

Mike Ruddock (Leinster coach): "It was a quite magnificent triumph. I thought Munster did brilliantly, a remarkable victory. In the heat and humidity it was an astonishing effort. I watched the first half at home and the second in Blackrock rugby club where everyone was screaming on Munster, almost oblivious to the match that was going on outside. It is a very important result for Irish rugby."

Liam Toland (The Limerick-born Leinster captain): "It was fantastic. An awful lot of sides, not just Irish ones could learn from Munster's spirit, determination and character. I am delighted for them and very envious. I think anybody who plays rugby, no matter what level will have a huge respect for what they achieved. Ulster paved the way, Munster have picked up the gauntlet. I can't see them losing now."

Dion O'Cuinneagain (former Ireland captain, current Ballymena and Ulster No 8): "I watched the match live in a pub in Cornwall. I was over there seeing friends. It was absolutely brilliant and there were even a few Irishmen with which to celebrate. The control, the passion, the performance of the tight five, the quality was just superb. I think the coaching team of Declan Kidney and Niall O'Donovan have done a brilliant job. They can win it."

Pat Murray (Former Munster captain, current Shannon coach): "I captained Munster four years ago the day we were thrashed by Toulouse in Toulouse so I can fully appreciate the magnitude of what this team has achieved. People can point to the Toulouse mistakes but Munster put them under fierce pressure. There was a tremendous commitment and will to win. There will be a few sore bodies but you don't feel it much after a win like that."

John Fitzgerald (Former Munster, Ireland and Young Munster player. Now coach to the club): "I was sitting in the stand on the 22 metre line. The atmosphere was unbelievable. The French were fantastic after the match, coming up and congratulating the Munster supporters and wishing us well in the final. I thought the second half performance was awesome, they cut through them. I was a little bit worried in the first 40 minutes."

David Corkery (Ireland international, Munster player currently out injured with a serious achilles tendon injury): "You wouldn't even describe it as mixed emotions. While I would have given everything to have played, I am thrilled for the players and management team. I was there in '96 when we were thrashed. I think Declan Kidney is the main difference, he's done a fantastic job. There is a very special bond in that squad."