Apparently, the IRFU and the Welsh RFU are pushing to introduce meritocracy in the appointement of referees for the Magners League, writes Gerry Thornley. On last night's evidence, it can't come soon enough; and likewise the belated introduction of neutral touchjudges. Michael Cheika could scarcely conceal the seething sense of anger from the away dressing-room in the aftermath of their 19-17 defeat in a potential league decider at Swansea's Liberty Stadium.

The penalty count varied from 13-5 to 14-5 in favour of the home side, with a catalogue of close calls invariably going to the home side. "We are very disappointed with the Scottish referee and the Welsh touchjudges," commented Cheika. "It wasn't just the last penalty decision, but a sequence of decisions."

Cheika conceded that the Ospreys are now in the driving seat. "It's out of our control now, but we're not out of it. We just have to beat the Borders at home and Cardiff away in our last two matches, and the Ospreys might find a derby against the Dragons particularly tough going."

Cheika was "proud" of the team's defensive commitment and discipline. "I can't fault our boys for effort. I was very happy with the performance. I thought we tackled everything," he added.

The Ospreys coach Lyn Jones commented: "I'm very proud of my boys. Leinster are a quality side and played with a lot of accuracy and hunger. We got over the gain line, generated tempo and played better field position in the second half."