Leinster captain Caelan Doris said that the prospect of several players leaving the province at the end of the season provided extra motivation before their 20-11 URC semi-final win against the Stormers.
The defending champions made a dominant start at the Aviva Stadium before the South African side fought back and closed the gap to just two points.
Jamison Gibson-Park was able to cross after the away side were reduced to 13 players, securing the win for Leo Cullen’s side and setting up a final against the Bulls.
Ciaran Frawley has confirmed his departure at the end of the season, while it is unclear if record-breaking try scorer James Lowe will stay at the province.
“It was a proper knockout game that,” said Doris.
“There were a few chances at the end of the first half that we left out there and they potentially change the outcome of the game if we convert them. Credit to Stormers.
“Delighted with the end result and to be in another final is a massive privilege for the group.
“We have a special group and quite a number of guys moving on at the end of the season. It has been a big motivator for us at the knockout stages to extend the season and enjoy our time together.”
Leinster will now have the opportunity to defend the URC title they won against the Bulls last season, and bounce back from last month’s Champions Cup final defeat by Bordeaux-Begles.
Head coach Cullen praised his players’ resilience but added that there are areas to work on before the showpiece in Dublin.
“It had a bit of everything, but very proud of the group because that’s our sixth play-off game of the season so far and it’s like this game, they take their toll physically,” he said.
“So, great challenge, amazing crowd out there today, amazing atmosphere out there today, so we’re just delighted to be into another final.
“They are a hugely physical team, we know that, so it’s not like a surprise for us, but I think we can be better from our point of view there.”
