Munster still in Euro groove

Acting skipper O'Gara masterminded Munster's second half fightback as he kicked 13 points in a 33-19 victory over the last remaining English side, Northampton Saints.

The scores were 1-1 between the two sides following their respective home wins in the Pool stages, but four tries from the double champions ensured they reached the last four and booked a clash with Biarritz Olympique in San Sebastian next month in a repeat of the 2006 final.

"Questions were asked if this was the end of an era for Munster. That's why this was a huge game for us," admitted O'Gara.

"We were under pressure because we lost to Leinster the previous week. We put a lot into that game, but still came up short.

"What is most pleasing is that we have a cup mentality that brings out the best in us. I saw it in the faces of the players when we were in Perpignan and I saw it again before this match.

"The really pleasing thing for me was that we scored four tries and left more out there. It means we are back in a Heineken Cup semi-final and knocking on the door again.

"We have been consistently at this stage in Europe and it is important for us to be knocking on the door year in, year out.

"We know Biarritz have a history of producing the goods in this competition and it is going to be a tough task for us."