The Daily Star Ireland
Leinster’s focus after their victory over Bristol Bears last week isn’t on the discipline issues that plagued them during the match. Despite conceding 17 penalties compared to Bristol’s eight and receiving three yellow cards, Leinster isn’t overly concerned about their disciplinary record. This comes amid wider discussions on discipline in Irish rugby, particularly during the Autumn Nations Series, where Leinster’s players make up a significant portion of the Irish team.
James Ryan, Leinster’s second row, acknowledged the issues but downplayed their significance, emphasizing cohesion as the bigger focus for the team. Even though they struggled with the scrum and faced a couple of yellow cards, notably for Rónan Kelleher and Max Deegan, Leinster managed to regain momentum and control despite being reduced to 13 players. This resilience was a key factor, especially after they conceded a try following Deegan’s yellow card.
Ryan explained that Leinster had been training under the pressure of playing with fewer players to strengthen their defense. This approach helped them bounce back after going down to 13 men, with Jordan Larmour scoring a try, and the team improving as they returned to full strength.
Leinster’s unbeaten run this season, with eight wins across all competitions, highlights their strong defense. Under senior coach Jacques Nienaber, Leinster has refined their defensive strategies, conceding only an average of 13 points per match in the URC. Ryan has been instrumental in this, contributing significantly to the tackle count, both in club and international rugby.
Today, Leinster faces Clermont Auvergne in a Pool 2 clash, where the French team will see former Leinster player Michael Ala’alatoa starting at tighthead prop. This adds a layer of intrigue, as both teams share valuable inside knowledge of each other’s strategies. Ryan anticipates a different kind of challenge, with Clermont more likely to play a pragmatic, kicking-focused game, unlike Bristol’s more open approach.
The match presents a unique test for Leinster as they look to maintain their excellent form at home.
