Leinster captain Caelan Doris said that the prospect of several players leaving the province at the end of the season provided extra motivation ahead of their 20-11 URC semi-final win against Bulls.
The defending champions made a dominant start at the Aviva Stadium before the South African side fought back and closed the gap to just two points.
However, Jamison Gibson-Park was able to cross after the away side were reduced to 13 players to secure the win for Leo Cullen’s side.
Players such as Ciaran Frawley have confirmed their departure at the end of the season, while it is unclear if record-breaking try scorer James Lowe will stay at the province.
“It was a proper knockout game that,” said the flanker.
“There were a few chances at the end of the first half that we left out there and they potentially change the outcome of the game if we convert them. Credit to Stormers.
“Delighted with the end result and to be in another final is a massive privilege for the group.”
“We have a special group and quite a number of guys moving on at the end of the season. It has been a big motivator for us at the knockout stages to extend the season and enjoy our time together.”
Leinster will now have the opportunity to defend their URC title they won against Bulls last season, and bounce back from last month’s Champions Cup final defeat by Bordeaux-Begles.
Head coach Cullen praised his players’ resilience but added there are areas to work on ahead of the showpiece in Dublin.
“It had a bit of everything, but very proud of the group because that’s our sixth play-off game of the season so far and it’s like this game, they take their toll physically,” he continued.
“So, great challenge, amazing crowd out there today, amazing atmosphere out there today, so we’re just delighted to be into another final now, so yeah, hugely excited.
“They are a hugely physical team, we know that, so it’s not like a surprise for us, but I think we can be better from our point of view there.”
