Unbeaten Cronin looking to extend run at RDS

The Irish international hooker hasn't lost in blue or white since transferring from Connacht and scored a vital try on his Heineken Cup debut in Montpellier in Round 1 when a last gasp penalty from Jonny Sexton earned the champions a 16-16 draw.

Cronin picked up the Man of the Match award in last weekend's 23-16 triumph in Glasgow that booked Leinster's ticket into the quarter-finals, but there is no thought of easing up in the last Pool game.

"A home quarter final is crucial and every team at the top of their Pool will be targeting that, but we're facing another incredibly hard game against Montpellier this weekend," said Cronin.

"They were extremely tough over there and we struggled a small bit before coming back into the game in the final 20 minutes. We got the draw and were lucky to do so.

"We were delighted to get the four points at the weekend because we knew how tough it was going to be. Firhill isn't an easy place to go to and get four points.

"We struggled to get go-forward ball and we gave away a few penalties at scrum time. That is worrying and is definitely something we will have to take a look at it in the week because it has been creeping into our game."

Having reached the quarter-finals and semi-finals of the Challenge Cup during his 19 European appearances with Connacht, Cronin is now hoping to go one better with his new club in the Heineken Cup.

"I've got a good record with Leinster and I haven't lost a game with them yet. I'm happy enough with my form and it's all about taking your chance when you get it," said Cronin, who has been sharing the hooking duties with last season's Heineken Cup winner Richardt Strauss.

"There is no room for complacency because it's such a competitive squad. You have to be at the top of your game all the time."

The big prize for Leinster on Friday night is the prospect of another big day out at the Aviva Stadium if they can secure a home quarter-final. That is something that excites Cronin and would guarantee another massive crowd.

"The Aviva is a fantastic place to play, but that's all down the line. It is all about getting over Montpellier first," said Cronin.