Munster skipper Anthony Foley declared his side worthy winners of the 2006 Heineken Cup yesterday and predicted their triumph over Biarritz is only the prelude to a dynasty of European glory.
The province finally claimed their first Heineken Cup crown, banishing memories of their heartbreaking defeats in the 2000 and 2002 finals by edging Biarritz 23-19 at the Millennium Stadium.
"I felt we deserved it over the year. At Munster we've always said we want to win trophies and big competitions," said Foley. "What we achieved (in Cardiff) is magnificent. It's a journey which is not over yet - it's just another station on the way."
Munster's cause was assisted by their enormous travelling support who descended on the Millennium Stadium, swamping the ground in red and effectively turning the final into a home match.
Foley added: "People call our fans our 16th man and maybe they're right. It was awesome at times to look around and see all that red.
"They're putting their hand in their pockets and throw hard earned cash at us so it's good to reward them with this victory."