Munster came within a converted try of beating Clermont on French soil, but ultimately the French side held on to reach the Heineken Cup final at the Aviva Stadium, winning 16 - 10.

Munster were first on the scoreboard when Ronan O'Gara kicked a sixth minute penalty. But the remainder of the first half was dominated by their French opponents.

Three minutes after O'Gara's penalty, winger Napolioni Nalaga ran over for a try which was converted by Morgan Parra.

Two further penalties from Parra gave the team from central France a 13 - 3 half-time lead.

Parra stretched the lead again from a penalty six minutes after the break. But it became a cue for a spirited Munster fight back.

With 20 minutes to go, Ronan O'Gara tapped the ball forward for Dennis Hurley to collect and drive over the try line to make it 16 - 8. O'Gara then converted to leave just six points between the teams.

Parra did have a chance to take the game beyond Munster five minutes later with a place kick. Perhaps the momentous nature of the occasion got to him as his attempt drifted to the right of the post.

But Munster were ultimately disappointed as Clermont held on despite late pressure.

©INPHO/Billy Stickland