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Brian O'Driscoll (file photo). INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Leinster not dead yet, says disappointed O'Driscoll

The star admits his side now only have “an outside chance” of progressing past the Heineken Cup group stages.

BRIAN O’DRISCOLL HAS admitted Leinster now only have an “outside chance” of qualifying from the Heineken Cup group stages, following their disappointing loss to Clermont Auvergne yesterday.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Irish captain, who missed yesterday’s game through injury, also said Clermont deserved their victory at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, but added that Leinster were “not dead” yet.

O’Driscoll made reference to Leinster boss Joe Schmidt’s claims that the French side would prefer playing away from home, on account of the burden prompted by their 51-match unbeaten run at the Stade Marcel Michelin.

He said that he initially suspected the coach might have been engaging in “mind games,” but that Clermont’s performance had proven him correct.

“They played with a great freedom of expression and thoroughly enjoyed their victory,” he said.

“They controlled things well and took their chances.”

O’Driscoll added that the “power of their back line” was key to the French side’s victory, explaining how “their backs continually got over the gain line,” while admitting that Leinster simply weren’t good enough on the day.

Reaction: Leinster looking for a ‘miracle’ after Clermont show class>

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6 Comments
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    Mute Chris Tobin
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    Dec 16th 2012, 9:10 AM

    looks like lots of “heino” tickets will be up for sale around dublin.

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    Mute Peter Kavanagh
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    Dec 16th 2012, 11:26 AM

    Not at all. Sure we’ve already got the blue and yellow scarves. Allez Clermont!

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    Mute Chris Tobin
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    Dec 16th 2012, 12:51 PM

    ha ha . at least one supporter surfaced , the rest ?.allez sunshine supporters !

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    Mute Ronan Lyons
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    Dec 16th 2012, 5:23 PM

    Have you honestly nothing better to be doing than trolling?!

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    Mute 5☆Fily
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    Dec 16th 2012, 10:27 PM

    Chris, if you going to attempt to troll I’d suggest you attempt to be either a) Original or b) Humorous. Preferably both.

    Sadly you appear to be incapable of either. So its probably a good idea for you to climb back into your little bitter box.

    There’s a good lad.

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    Mute Johnathan Wicklow Barberie
    Favourite Johnathan Wicklow Barberie
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    Dec 17th 2012, 2:31 PM

    O’Driscoll may have made a difference. Still, it was a great match to watch and Clermont earned every aspect of the victory.

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