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Leinster’s Strong Performance Secures 20-12 Win Over Connacht at Aviva Stadium
Last Updated: 21/12/24 8:28pm
Leinster continued their dominant run in the United Rugby Championship, achieving their tenth consecutive victory across all competitions with a hard-fought 20-12 win over Connacht at the Aviva Stadium.
The first half saw Leinster establish a solid foundation with tries from Andrew Osborne and Charlie Tector, who both demonstrated excellent positioning and support play. Despite the team’s efforts, they were unable to fully capitalize on a yellow card issued to Connacht’s Shane Jennings, which could have intensified their lead. After a successful penalty by Ross Byrne, Connacht began to gain traction, responding with two tries in the second half.
Connacht’s Oisin Dowling and Jennings both made their mark on the scoreboard, narrowing the gap to just five points. Mack Hansen started to find his rhythm, bringing energy to Connacht’s attack. However, as the match progressed into its final phase, Leinster managed to regain control and composure. Byrne ultimately sealed the match with a penalty in the dying moments, solidifying Leinster’s victory.
Leinster, under the leadership of coach Leo Cullen, made a significant number of changes from their previous match but still managed to exert early pressure on their opponents. Connacht, led by Bundee Aki and Jennings, held firm defensively in the face of this onslaught. Nineteen minutes into the game, a clever play off Leinster’s lineout allowed Byrne to set up Osborne for the opening try, which Byrne also successfully converted.
Connacht faced a setback when Jennings received a yellow card for a late challenge on Luke McGrath, which was soon exploited as Barrett assisted Tector in scoring Leinster’s second try, further extending the home side’s lead.
As the second half began, Connacht’s attack was sparked by the dynamic runs of Paul Boyle and Josh Ioane. After a brief injury concern sidelined Ioane, Connacht’s Darragh Murray’s lineout steals became a bright spot for the visitors, complemented by Shamus Hurley-Langton’s ability to win turnovers.
Following Barron’s yellow card early in the second half, Dowling scored, capitalizing on the ensuing tap penalty, which briefly reignited Connacht’s hopes. Under pressure, Leinster’s defenses became narrow, allowing Jennings to score, bringing Connacht to within five points at 17-12, with Forde successfully converting.
The match reached a critical juncture when Connacht captain Cian Prendergast executed a remarkable defensive hold on Barron, preventing a certain try with just ten minutes left. As tensions mounted, Jimmy O’Brien was penalized, leaving Leinster at a numerical disadvantage. However, it was Byrne who ultimately put the finishing touch on the game, ensuring Leinster maintained their impressive winning streak.
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