I have to admit that I actually don't mind the play-offs too much. A controversial statement I know and one that I am sure will not be taken well by my fellow blogger.
But play-offs do add that little bit of spice to a competition that otherwise can often be sown up long before the end of the tournament.
Now I'm not saying they are particularly a fair way of conducting your business, and I am fully aware they are often seen by many as simply a way of the higher ups exploiting a competition and making more cash for their ever growing coffers.
And I am also pretty sure that the team which works hard over the course of the season and finishes in top spot will also not be keen on the idea, but they do add something extra to a competition. And while many will not like them, they are unfortunately here and don't look as though they're going anywhere.
But putting play-offs to one side, this weekend sees the final of the Heineken Cup and pits two of Europe's heavyweights going at it tooth and nail for the coveted trophy.
Toulouse are easily the most successful team in the competition, but Munster are no mugs and if anything have the class and experience not to choke on the big occassion - and let's face it they don't come an awful lot bigger than this.
And I will also be watching the final from inside a pub somewhere in deepest, darkest Ireland while on a joint stag-do. So in that case all I can say is come on Munster!
