Leinster have now beaten La Rochelle on three consecutive occasions. Is this a sign they have turned the corner against bigger French sides, or was it a smash-and-grab with worrying implications for the future?
Gordon D’Arcy believes the bigger picture thinking should be placed to one side for now and that Leinster should be pleased to have come out of a difficult environment with the win. John O’Sullivan, on the other hand, points to a number of concerning trends in the Leinster performance which he thinks do not bode well for the future.
Who is right in this debate? Only time will tell.
On this edition of The Counter Ruck, the panel also discusses another European night in Thomond to remember for Munster, Connacht’s prospects of winning the Challenge Cup and Ulster’s implosion away to Leicester.
Ireland and Garry Ringrose look to Brian Fenton for some marginal gains
Six Nations half-term report: Ireland can improve but may still regret late lapses against England
Garry Ringrose looking forward to challenge of fighting for Irish centre spots
Will a new coach bounce for Wales cause Ireland problems?
Produced by John Casey.