Jacob Beetham was quick to deflect attention from himself after Cardiff’s crucial victory over Leinster Rugby, but there was no doubting his impact on a huge night for the Blue & Blacks.

The versatile back produced an assured performances as Cardiff stuck firmly to their plan to edge out one of the strongest sides in the competition.

Beetham’s evening wasn’t without its nervy moments. He blotted his copy book with a yellow card for a failed interception attempt. After more than 14 minutes in the sin-bin, he could only watch as Leinster crossed to set up a nail-biting finale and he admitted his mind immediately went to the worst-case scenario.

“To be honest, I just wanted to get back on,” he said. “When they scored that try, I was thinking the worst. It feels like it comes back on yourself if you’re the one who’s got the yellow.

“Half a second earlier and I could see myself taking it,” he explained. “I just reacted that slight bit later, so I didn’t quite get on the ball. It was one of those ones, just off impulse I guess. It is what it is.”

Any frustration was quickly outweighed by the scale of the result. The Irish province were on an 11- match winning run as they look to defend their URC crown.

A win over Leinster is never routine, and Beetham admitted it is exactly the type of fixture players relish.

“They’re such a great outfit. Whenever you get a chance to play a team like that, you’re licking your lips thinking this could be an amazing win if we get it.” 

“ I was just so happy when we managed to keep them out and come away with the win. It was really cool.”

Playing in some of the worst conditions of the season, the contest demanded accuracy and effort above all else. Cardiff showed great fight and discipline in defence, conceding only three penalties throughout the 80 minutes. Beetham said the focus was on getting the basics right despite the elements.

“For me it was a lot of kick chase, a lot of competing for the high ball,” he said. “I think we, as a team, did that really well. Me, Mas, Cam and Sheedy as well – I think we won the aerial battle and that was a big part of the game for me. 

“From playing a lot of full-back, I feel like it’s a good part of my game,” he added. “I think I did alright tonight.”