CHAMPS WILL GET IT TOUGH.

Byline: MICHAEL SCULLY

KEITH WOOD believes Leinster need to quickly learn the lessons of past champions if they are to be competitive in the Heineken Cup next term.

Only Leicester have successfully defended the European title and Wood says that the hard work starts here for Michael Cheika's outfit.

However, despite the departure of player of the year Rocky Elsom, Wood insists the Blues can achieve further success.

"Anybody who hasn't enjoyed this year couldn't have a heart - that's the way I'd look at it," he said.

"The Grand Slam was just fantastic and Leinster's performance in the semifinal was phenomenal.

"The fact that they backed it up in the final, it was just a pleasure to be a rugby fan watching it.

"They'll want it to continue and they'll do everything they can to do that.

"But what they need to do is look at the problems that other winners had after their first win, recognise what happened to them and try to make certain that those problems don't happen to them. That's the key.

"It's what they learn from the win. It took Munster two years but it was a long drive for Leinster to get where they wanted to go and they did it - and it was great to watch."

CAPTION(S):

SUCCESS Leinster skipper Leo Cullen lifts Heineken Cup