Under-21 Interprovincial Championship: A slicker and more clinical Leinster stepped up on recent performances to clinch the championship with a richly merited 21-10 victory over Munster at Dubarry Park, Athlone on Saturday.
Both sides went after the championship with a relish and the new format seems a success judging by the decent attendance who braved a foul night.
The game got off to an explosive start with Conor Donohoe finishing off a lightning break by Leinster from inside their own 22 for the opening try after just two minutes. Munster responded swiftly, some neat handling in the lead up to Eric Moloney's try after seven minutes.
Supporters had to wait until the 35th minute for the next score, Donohoe securing his second try. Jonathan Sexton converted this too for a 14-5 half-time advantage for Leinster who had won just one pool game.
Leinster sealed a high tempo contest and the title just seven minutes into the second period when Seán O'Brien careered through for their third try which the near-flawless Sexton converted. Munster's sole reply wasConan Doyle's 51st minute try.
In the preceding game, Ulster pipped Connacht 10-8 to seal third place courtesy of tries from Paul Marshall and Jamie McGrugan. Connacht's scores came from a Mark Butler penalty and a late Liam Casserly try.
