THIS DOZEN END HERE..

First trophy in 12 years is just the start for us, says Jeremy

- MICHAEL SCULLY

IT HAS only just begun for Munster after the release of a first final triumph in 12 years, says Jeremy Loughman.

The Ireland prop was just 15 when the Reds beat Leinster to win the 2011 Magners League title.

He recalls how his dad parked up beside Thomond Park and they watched events unfold from up in the stand above the players' tunnel.

"I remember everything from it," he smiled. "It was a memorable day.

Saturday provided an even sweeter one.

Well over a decade later and 12,000 miles away from their Limerick home, a Munster team with Loughman in the front row beat the Sharks, the home side and the defending champions, to win their first final since.

"We've created some history," said the 27-year-old.

"And to do it away from home in tough conditions, against a really good team, they have some world class players... for the lads that have been battling since (2011), Earlsy (Keith Earls) was on that team, and Mur (Conor Murray, inset), so to do that is special, really special.