Leinster secure home last eight spot in Europe

Holders Leinster comfortably assured themselves of a home tie in the European Cup quarter-finals with a 25-3 victory over French side Montpellier in Dublin. The Irish province and fellow-two time winners Munster had already booked their place in the last eight last weekend and on Friday were joined by another Irish provincial side, Ulster, after Connacht's win over Harlequins ensured they would progress. Ulster play French giants Clermont later on Saturday but Connacht's surprise victory ensured the Northern Irishmen are guaranteed at least one of the best two runners-up spots. Clermont must win to ensure they reach the knockout stage. Four spots remain up for grabs after four-time champions Toulouse scraped through as winners of Pool 6 despite being beaten by Gloucester on Friday thanks to Harlequins slip-up. Leinster stormed into an early 17-0 lead over Montpellier with tries from Sean O'Brien and man of the match Rob Kearney - both converted by Fergus McFadden - looking like they were cruising to ensuring they earned a home tie in the last eight. Kearney's was the pick of the two as scrum-half Isaac Boss went to the blindside 30 metres out and fed veteran centre Gordon D'Arcy who released Kearney into space and the fullback made no mistake as his momentum carried him over the line despite being tackled for his 13th try in 40 European Cup appearances. Montpellier - who fielded a strong side as they prepare for a crucial Top 14 date with Stade Francais next Friday - did not crumble under that early assault and despite having the strong wind against them camped inside the hosts 22 for the best part of a quarter of an hour. However, they came away with nothing as the champions' defence held firm and McFadden - who had assumed the kicking duties after Jonathan Sexton was ruled out an hour before kick-off with an injury to his left ankle - extended the lead to 20-0 with a penalty shortly before the break. Leinster, though, wrapped the game up and achieved their objective of home advantage for the last eight when Cian Healy burrowed over in the 43rd minute for the hosts third try to make it 25-0.