"The pack played well. We were 10-6 down at one stage and we showed great composure. All credit to the leaders – Ronan O’Gara, Anthony Foley and Mick O’Driscoll," said Kidney.

"It’s a huge achievement for us to come over to Stradey Park and win here."

Asked top comment on his team being top of the group after three games, Kidney said: "Ask me after round six.

"We have got the Scarlets back at Thomond Park next Sunday and they will be wanting their pound of flesh. There is a healthy respect between the two teams."

With the match conditions deteriorating in the second half when a violent hail storm swept across the ground, Kidney revealed there had been concerns shown by referee Wayne Barnes over player safety.

"The referee had a chat with the two captains saying they had to keep a close eye on the conditions. Those conditions were horrendous. He had player safety in mind but everybody had to see it through," added Kidney.