Tactical changes introduced at half-time laid the foundation for Leinster's Heineken Cup victory but the Irish side's experience was also critical, according to The Guardian's Paul Rees.
"Northampton defied their stereotype from the off. When James Downey received the ball after 30 seconds, Leinster would have expected him to run at Gordon D'Arcy. Instead, he stepped away from his opposite number. The Saints were physical but they opted less for pick-and-go and more for pace and width. Ben Foden was influential and Stephen Myler played with his head up, running past Sean O'Brien to create his side's second try. Leinster were sucked into a game for which they were not prepared. Their back row was based on bulk rather than pace and they were turned over six times in the first 35 minutes. Shane Jennings's introduction at openside flanker helped to plug turnovers and O'Brien, hapless at No7, became hugely influential on the blind side. Northampton had their platform kicked away and Leinster, keeping hold of the ball, dictated the pace."
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