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Match Report | Leinster 37-21 Ulster

11th August 2025

Despite the final score, there were plenty of positives to take away from the Vodafone Women’s Interprovincial Championship opener, with Ulster fighting their way back into the contest after being down 17-0.

In the opening stages, both teams showed early-season rust, with a number of knock-ons disrupting the flow. However, Ulster's powerful pack, led by India Daley and Brenda Barr, made significant inroads into the Leinster half. It was a textbook tackle from Brogan on Niamh Marley that created a penalty opportunity for Leinster, but Ulster responded well, keeping the game tight. A loose kick allowed Baker to straighten in attack before hard-charging Maggie Boylan was blasted into touch by Paige Smyth in the left corner.

Leinster broke the deadlock in the 15th minute with a try from Baker, capitalising on a loose kick. Despite some disciplined play from Ulster, including strong tackles and athleticism shown from Niamh Marley and Lucy Thompson, a few penalties proved costly. Leinster's backs, particularly Brogan and Maggie Boylan, were effective in attack, and a well-worked try from Neill extended the lead to 17-0.

At last, Ulster carved out a fine move, out-half Lauren Farrell-McCabe and Siobhan Sheerin combining brilliantly for the latter to touch down and convert in the 36th minute. A tremendous offensive tackle by Georgia Boyce and Katie Hetherington’s follow-up work at the breakdown ensured Ulster’s security. Better again, Tara O’Neill shot through a gap. Barr’s hands sent Daley over for the score. Sheerin converted for a three-point game.

Unfortunately, Leinster's quick response saw Brogan cross for her second try just before the break, giving the home side a 22-14 lead.

HT: Leinster 22 – 14 Ulster

The second half started with Leinster extending their lead through a try from Gaffney, but Ulster refused to give in. Tighthead prop Sophie Barrett barrelled over from a five-metre penalty, and Sheerin's conversion brought the score to 27-21, creating a six-point game.

A crucial yellow card for second-row Brenda Barr, however, allowed Leinster to exploit the space, and Baker scored her second try to make it 32-21. As the game wore on, both teams showed signs of fatigue, but Ulster's direct carries, led by Sheerin and O'Neill, continued to challenge the Leinster defence.

Ultimately, it was Emma Brogan who had the final say, completing her hattrick in the 79th minute. While the result was disappointing for Ulster, their resilience and second-half performance show plenty of promise for the rest of the championship.