Munster overcame a half-time deficit to beat English Premiership champions 18 - 12 at the Twickenham Stoop and reach the Heineken Cup semi-finals.

The win will be even sweeter for Rob Penney and his team as they were written off ahead of the clash against one of the favourites for the trophy.

Munster trailed Harlequins 9 - 6 at half time to keep themselves within touching distance, heading into the second 40.

Nick Evans had given Quins a 6-0 lead but Ronan O'Gara reduced the deficit with a penalty in the 25th minute.

The two then exchanged penalties to make it 9-6 to the English side.

Munster then wrested control of the match in a physical and attritional second half.

O'Gara was instrumental in the final reckoning, kicking four penalties in the second half to set up a semi final meeting with Clermont Auvergne in France.

Pride

Man of the Match Paul O'Connell revealed his pride after the morale-boosting victory:

"It means so much so much to these young guys. There are so many people doubting them and on their back every week. I know how hard they work. I know how much it means to them and their families." 

©INPHO/Dan Sheridan