Munster struggled to gain any momentum in the match

The Munster and Ireland fly-half, captain instead of an injured Paul O'Connell, offered no excuses after Scarlets' 24-15 quarter-final victory.

"Llanelli brought a great intensity to the game, and they had a hunger we couldn't match.

"There were also crucial scores before half-time," added O'Gara.

Tries by Dafydd James, Gavin Thomas and Barry Davies swept Llanelli into their third European semi-final and they will face Leicester or Stade Francais in three weeks' time.

Munster's hopes of emulating Leicester in becoming only the second team to retain the Heineken Cup collapsed during a one-sided opening period when the Scarlets romped 17-0 ahead.

"We tried hard, but our execution was poor at times," said O'Gara.

Scarlets have the ability to win the tournament Munster coach Declan Kidney

"We turned over the ball, and we weren't as sharp as we could have been. It is going to be a long few days now.

"The great thing about this team is we win and lose together. We will have to reassess now, and if we are made of stern stuff we will come back. If we are not, then we won't."

Munster rugby director Declan Kidney applauded the Scarlets' high-class display.

He said: "I always said I would put my hands up if we were beaten by a better team. Llanelli were that tonight, and I congratulate them.

"They dominated for long periods, and we never got close enough to make them feel nervous.

"They are a skilful side, and while there are still six other good teams left in the tournament, I wouldn't put them too far down the betting list. They have the ability to win it."