26 Jun 13
Jamie Heaslip's try proved decisive as Leinster finally ended their RaboDirect PRO12 heart-ache, withstanding a late Ulster onslaught to seal a 24-18 win to lift the trophy.
The 12th season kicked off with a new Italian side - Zebre replaced Aironi as RaboDirect continued their sponsorship of the PRO12.
Teams across the tournament were playing exciting, expansive rugby as the number of tries rose 12% from season 2011/12.
Leinster were saying goodbye to several stars, including Joe Schmidt, Isa Nacewa and Jonathan Sexton as they rose to the top of the table after 22 rounds.
After eliminating the Ospreys from play-off contention, the RDS played host to Glasgow Warriors who took Leinster close, but couldn't overhaul the Irish province.
The PRO12 title was part of a historic treble, with Schmidt signing off from Leinster with the Challenge Cup, the British & Irish Cup and the PRO12 trophy, thanks to a fantastic Shane Jennings performance as Ulster were beaten 18-24.
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