It was in many ways the perfect script.
Departing Leinster captain Isa Nacewa, a man who has contributed so much to Irish rugby, secures Champions Cup glory for his team with two minutes remaining in the final. A last, dramatic act in a decorated career in the blue jersey.
The try-less 15-12 victory over Racing 92 is a game that won’t live long in the memory for the purists, but that will matter little to all those connected with Leinster.
Their unbeaten European season concludes with a fourth European Cup, with Nacewa – a key figure in all four years – holding his nerve with two late penalties after Johnny Sexton and Racing scrum-half Teddy Iribaren were the only other players to trouble the scoreboard in a relatively dour encounter at Bilbao’s San Mames Stadium.
"It’s a special day," Nacewa told RTÉ Sport. "A special day for all the Leinster region, the backroom staff, the guys that couldn’t play today...just a magical, magical day. A lot of people put a lot of hard work into this."
After an initial five-year stint with Dublin, Nacewa unexpectedly hung up his boots in 2013 before returning to his old stomping ground three years ago.
The 35-year-old departs again this summer, but rather than lament his exit, Nacewa says he is encouraged for what the future holds for Leinster.
"I’ll have plenty of time to be gutted about not playing for a fifth star, but we have got a great crew here, great coaches, great set-up and a lot of young guys that can push on.
"There is a young crew that have taken a step and will build on that."
Former Leinster player Bernard Jackman paid tribute to Nacewa’s nerve and skill, hailing the multi-talented utility back as the country’s most impactful import.
"He’s been the best foreign player that has come into Irish rugby"
"For Nacewa to have to kick those kicks...they weren’t that hard, but it still has to be done in a clutch moment for the team," he said.
"He’s unbelievable. He’s been the best foreign player that has come into Irish rugby and that’s a big statement.
"In terms of his influence on and off the field. He plays every week, during the Six Nations and November when the internationals are away, he’s a really good role model for the younger players.
"For him to finish with a trophy at this level is outstanding."
