"We spoke about last year, talked about missing out and the disappointment of letting things slip when we were in a position to control our own destiny. We decided that we still had time this season not to go down the same route. We started to believe in each other and that's when things changed."

Lansdowne number eight Colin McEntee tried to identify the catalyst for change, when the team shed its inconsistency, and secured a place in Saturday's league decider. "We were very inconsistent, not putting two wins together and then we managed that and the confidence levels soared.

"I think it coincided with a change in attitude. The previous season the team hadn't really been pulling together and some of that had lingered. We weren't really transferring our game from the training ground to the pitch. We started to believe in each other and individuals started taking responsibility."

One player whom McEntee singles out is outhalf Barry Everitt. "He has been excellent in recent matches after struggling a little bit early on. His confidence has soared and he is now dictating patterns in a game. I don't think the pack took on much ball the last day (against Terenure) because he was able to run the game. We (the pack) have great confidence in him.

"Prior to that our game was a little too forward-orientated so it was a case of becoming less predictable. In recent matches we have played a more rounded game and that has allowed us to maximise the talents of Shane Horgan and Gordon D'Arcy both of whom are playing very well.

"I think the pack has done pretty well all year; we are a fit side but we weren't using that to our advantage at times."

On a personal level, McEntee, a development officer with the Leinster Branch of the IRFU, is enjoying his rugby and is not dispirited with his lack of representative honours. A former Ireland youths, under-21 and A international, he will next season again opt for a part-time contract with Leinster.

"I have spoken with Mike Ruddock and he is aware of my situation workwise. If there is a glut of injuries then I would be quite happy to step in when required."

For now McEntee's thoughts dwell on Saturday's game against St Mary's. "Much of their game is based around their forwards. They have seven good ball carriers and are strong in the back row.

"Our job is to deny them momentum up front, we will be looking to shut them down quickly and perhaps force them out of their routine. They will obviously have their own ideas about where we are strong. There isn't much between the sides and to be honest our league victory over them will only make them all the more determined.

"Whatever else I achieve in my career, I would love to win on Saturday. Anything more than that would be a bonus."