Cian Healy awarded after reaching record breaking milestone

Irish prop Cian Healy became the Champions Cup's all-time record appearance maker in Leinster's win over Northampton. The Ireland and Leinster veteran was brought on as a sub in the latter stages of the province's 20-17 win at Croke Park.

And in doing so, he made his 111th appearance in the competition, making him its highest all-time appearance maker.

Not only that but, having played in Leinster's Heineken Cup semi-final win over Munster at GAAHQ in 2009, he was the only player to feature in both games 15 years apart.

The achievement was celebrated on the pitch after the game, with Healy bringing his kids onto the pitch at Croker.

Taoiseach Simon Harris made a presentation to the 36-year-old, who was celebrated by his teammates once the players had returned to the dressing room.

When he came on as a substitute, Leinster fans showed their appreciation with a rapturous reception, while supporters on social media followed suit.

Seana said: "Massive congratulations to @ProperChurch what a career and what an achievement"

Jay posted: "With the extremely non-relaxing last 20 mins yesterday I didn't really comment on this.

"But what a cheer he got marching on. Absolute legend"

Healy was tied for the most appearances on 110 alongside Munster icon Ronan O'Gara when he came off the bench to help beat the Munster legend's La Rochelle side in the quarter-final.

Healy's now boss Leo Cullen finished his playing career with 92 appearances while Brian O'Driscoll recorded 87.

There are many other Ireland legends high up on the list such as: Gordon D'Arcy (104), Peter Stringer (101), John Hayes (101), Donncha O'Callaghan (97), Shane Horgan (87), Anthony Foley (85) and Jamie Heaslip (85).

The Taoiseach was brought on to the pitch after the game and could be seen chatting to Healy as Leinster celebrated their 20-17 over Northampton, whose second-half fightback just fell short.

The repeat of the 2011 final was a mismatch for the first hour with wing James Lowe running in a hat-trick against the Gallagher Premiership leaders, who suffered from a high error count.

A 82,300 capacity crowd in Dublin watched the first England club to play at the home of Gaelic sport