“I let you down.”

Defending champions Leinster progressed to this year’s Champions Cup semi-final stages with a 21-18 win over rivals Ulster last night, in a scintillating affair at the Aviva Stadium.

The northern province pushed their neighbours all the way, with a Ross Byrne penalty in the final ten minutes all that ultimately separated the two sides in the end, despite Leinster being heavy favourites.

But things could have been a lot different had Jacob Stockdale converted a golden opportunity in the 44th minute. The Ireland international dropped the ball over the line in an uncharacteristic error, after making an incredible solo run up the touchline.

After the game Ulster head coach Dan McFarland refused to criticise his winger, instead rightfully pointing out that few players in the world could have got themselves into the position he did to begin with.

“I know what you want me to say and I’m not going to say it… there’s not that many people in the world that can beat that many players to get into the position to get the ball down. I’m proud of Jacob.” McFarland said

And today a devastated Stockdale posted a heartbreaking statement on Instagram, apologising to Ulster fans for his mistake.

“I’ve had some incredible highs with Ulster rugby, but unfortunately yesterday was a low for me. Sport can be cruel and sometimes you have to learn your lessons the hard way. To the Ulster fans I just want to say I am sorry, I let you down, the support we had yesterday was truly amazing and you deserve to be looking forward to a European semi final.”

Absolutely top class from the youngster. You live and learn. Shit happens. No doubt yesterday wasn’t his last European quarter final.