Leo Cullen has admitted Leinster were “steamrolled” by Munster last season as the provincial rivals prepare to meet again at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Leinster head into the URC showdown following an impressive 48-23 bonus-point win away to Clermont in the Champions Cup.

But despite that encouraging performance in France, Cullen knows his side will need to improve on their last meeting with Munster in Dublin.

Clayton McMillan’s men claimed victory at Croke Park last season, and the Leinster boss offered a blunt assessment of that defeat.

“We got steamrolled by them last year, which was tough viewing from our point of view,” Cullen said, via The 42.

“We’ll need to be a lot better than we were last year.”

Cullen highlighted Munster’s forward platform as a particular threat.

Having watched their recent URC outings against Glasgow, the Bulls and Ulster, he believes their physicality will present a significant challenge.

“I watched their Glasgow game. They had chances; I think they’ll be disappointed not to win that game. They were very good against the Bulls the following week. I watched that Ulster game as well. They were well ahead.”

Cullen acknowledged that the opening weeks of the season can make it difficult to establish exactly where each team stands, with returning players and injuries influencing selection.

But one aspect of Munster’s game has already caught his attention.

“What would you say about them? The set piece is looking strong, which is a big thing. It’s probably the main strength. Again, huge physicality.”

Saturday’s meeting gives Leinster the chance to respond to last season’s Croke Park defeat, while Munster will arrive looking to make it back-to-back wins over their provincial rivals in Dublin.

Both sides come into the game on the back of Champions Cup victories, setting up an intriguing showdown at the Aviva Stadium. And Cullen’s assessment makes clear that matching Munster’s physicality will be central to Leinster’s preparations.