DEPARTING COACH MATT O’Connor lamented his side’s inability to hit high standards after his exit from the province was confirmed.
The province’s CEO Mick Dawson announced that the Australian would leave by mutual consent after meeting of the professional games board in UCD this morning.
In a statement released by Leinster, O’Connor outlines his disappointment with his team’s league form, but points to the Heineken and Champions Cup journeys as memories ‘to be proud of’:
“I am disappointed and frustrated with our form in the Pro12 this season,” the Australian said in a statement.
“We set high standards for ourselves and for many reasons, we did not achieve those highs throughout the league this campaign.
“However the European journey that we took over two seasons, for a new group of coaches, players and staff, is one that we can be very proud of. The dynamic in Europe has changed with meritocracy and fewer teams competing and this has improved the quality.
Pursuit
“We went toe to toe with the best and there is no shame in losing to Toulon by the smallest of margins and I’m extremely proud of the group and the character shown.”
“I would like to thank my coaching team and the backroom staff for their support and for leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit of a performance every week.
“I’d also like to thank the players for their application during my time here. They have been a pleasure to work with and I will look back on my time with great fondness for what we achieved together.
“Finally, to the supporters, thanks for making me and my family feel welcome during our time here and I wish Leinster Rugby the very best of luck for the future.”
