A second half try from full back Jason Tovey and a couple of penalties from young fly half Rhys Patchell saw Phil Davies’ side get back into things but it was not enough to prevent a 11-26 defeat.Â
Isaac Boss and Jordi Murphy both crossed for the Irish side with Ian Madigan kicking 16 points.
It was Leinster who kicked off the evening at the Arms Park and got off to a quick start with a penalty from Madigan.
The Blues responded quickly, showing strong pace and ball skills as Patchell passed to Owen Williams who chipped the ball over the defence. Just inches from the Leinster try line, the home crowd sadly saw Williams unable to catch and the chance was lost.
The Blues then gained a reward for their efforts when Leinster were penalised for indiscretion at the line out. Patchell made no mistake to level the scores.
Patchell then missed a chance to give his side the lead and Madigan responded with two of his own to pull Leinster clear. And just minutes later it got better for the visitors, as Boss dived over for Madigan to convert.
Irishman Murphy then rounded off a brilliant half for the European champions and powered over to leave the Blues trailing by 20 points at the break.
Patchell mishit an early second half penalty but his side battled through several phases of good possession for Tovey to score in the corner. Patchell missed the conversion but the Arms Park crowd had hope.
A break from Williams saw Leinster concede a further penalty and Patchell regained his form to slot through the posts and further narrow the gap.
Davies’ side were giving it their all and the home crowd thought they had seen a second score only for Patchell’s try to be brought back by the referee for a knock on.
A reversal of fortunes then saw Leinster further their lead with another Madigan penalty- an advantage they maintained to the final whistle.Â
