Munster hero Peter Stringer praised his team-mates after his side finally claimed the Heineken Cup on Saturday afternoon. Stringer was named man of the match after an all-action display.

Afterwards, he told Sky Sports: "We waited so long, I can't ask for more than the 100 per cent  the guys have given. It has been a long time, we have worked hard. It was about honesty from one to 22. We are delighted with the win."

Munster had previously lost twice in the final but Stringer insisted the team were not motivated by their past disappointments.

He added: "It was more about belief for the next year, thinking about what's going on and not what's behind you. I am just thrilled. It seems the whole of Munster are here. They [fans] have been with us so much over the years and they have travelled with us everywhere."

Taoiseach Bertie Ahern paid tribute to the Munster team following their win.

"I am delighted that Munster have finally achieved their  dream in becoming the best team in Europe," he said.

"Their performance today typified everything that is great about the team and their great hunger and desire won out in the end against an exceptionally good side in Biarritz.

"I want to congratulate everybody involved with the team, the players, management, backroom staff and of course the fans who drove the lads on again today."