Leicester Tigers became the first club to qualify for the 18th season of the Heineken Cup when they beat Northampton Saints 26-14 in the 2012 LV=Cup final at Sixways, Worcester.
Two-times Heineken Cup winner Geordan Murphy led Tigers to the title to guarantee the club a ticket into European rugby's top tournament next season. It will be the 16th season in the Heineken Cup for the 2001 and 2002 champions.
Tigers' back row man Steve Mafi scored a crucial first-half try to crown a man of the match winning performance in a tight game between the two big East Midlands rivals.
"It was really tough. Northampton were attacking from everywhere, but full credit to the boys, we defended how we wanted to and pulled it off," said Mafi.
"I'm really happy with the result and, hopefully, we can build on that confidence and finish the season on a high."
Scott Hamilton grabbed a second half interception try to ensure the Tigers picked up the trophy and England Under 20 outside half George Ford added the rest of the points. Saints had a late consolation try from Christian day to add to three Stephen Myler penalties.
