Preview | Leinster Rugby (A)

Ulster look to pick up where they left off in the BKT United Rugby Championship, after three successive victories gave a massive boost to the province's top eight play-off hopes. This weekend sees Ulster take on the league leaders and interpro riv...

Richie Murphy's side have their sights fully focused on finishing the season strong, with only four matches left of the campaign.

Three wins on the bounce against Scarlets, Dragons and DHL Stormers have gave the province a much needed feel-good factor heading into the last stretch of the season.

Ulster showed fantastic fighting spirit against Bordeaux in the Round of 16 Investec Champions Cup knockout match against Bordeaux, that saw the TOP14 side edge the contest by 43-31.

Leinster are in fine form and will be feeling very confident after a gutsy URC Round 14 victory against Hollywoodbets Sharks in Durban and a recent Investec Champions Cup victories over Harlequins and Glasgow Warriors.

The two European victories highlighted Leinster's strength, as they recorded results of 62-0 and 52-0 against their opponents respectively.

Match Details

🏟️ Leinster Rugby v Ulster Rugby, Aviva Stadium

📅 Saturday 19 April

🕰️ 7.35pm

🏆 BKT United Rugby Championship, Round 15

📺 Premier Sports

How it stands

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Last time out

Ulster's 2023/24 campaign came to an end against Leinster at Aviva in the Quarter-Final stage of the URC, with the hosts winning by 43-20.

Ulster made a strong start to the Quarter-Final and had an early try attempt held up. Leinster grew into the game and scored two tries through Robbie Henshaw and James Lowe. Those converted tries and a Ross Bryne penalty gave Leinster a 17-0 lead at the break despite Ulster's bright spells.

John Cooney got Ulster on the board with a penalty but then James Lowe scored a superb try, keeping the ball in play with his boot and kicking it through into the corner to score.

Ulster scored their first try after Cooney found David McCann in space for a simple score.

Leinster would then put the game to bed when Jordan Larmour ran in on the right wing for Leinster's fourth.

Stewart Moore responded with a well worked try but Leinster stamped their authority once with Van Der Flier and Moloney getting in on the act. A great late finish in the corner from Mike Lowry gave Ulster something to cheer at the end of the game, but Leinster had done more than enough to take the victory in Dublin.

Players to watch

RG Snyman:

RG Snyman is a towering presence in the Leinster pack, renowned for his athleticism and physicality in the lock position. Standing at 2.06 meters and weighing 125kg, Snyman brings a blend of power and finesse to the game, both in the set-piece and around the field. A South Africa international, he has a wealth of experience at the highest level, including World Cup success with the Springboks in 2019 and 2023. Known for his dominant line-out presence, strong carries, and aggressive defense, Snyman is a key figure in Leinster’s pack.

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Jordie Barrett:

Jordie Barrett is a dynamic and versatile back who can play at fullback, centre, or wing. Known for his powerful kicking game, speed, and strength, Barrett is a threat in both attack and defence. A New Zealand international, he boasts a wealth of experience from Super Rugby with the Hurricanes and has been a consistent performer at the international level. His ability to break the gain line, as well as his excellent tactical kicking, provides Leinster with a potent attacking weapon.

Josh Van Der Flier:

Josh van der Flier is one of the standout open-side flankers in world rugby. A key part of the Irish and Leinster back rows, van der Flier is renowned for his work rate, tackling ability, and breakdown prowess. With a reputation as one of the top ball-stealers in the game, he is relentless in his pursuit of the ball and provides excellent support play both in attack and defence. Van der Flier’s leadership qualities and calm under pressure make him a vital asset in any match, and his ability to disrupt Ulster’s attacking phases will be a crucial factor in this high-stakes encounter.

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Jamison Gibson-Park:

One of the most exciting scrum-halves in Europe, known for his fast service, quick thinking, and superb decision-making skills. The New Zealand native and Ireland international has been a key figure for Leinster, playing a significant role in their attacking structure. His sharp passing and exceptional vision allow him to dictate the tempo of the game, while his speed and agility make him a constant threat around the fringes of the ruck. With great composure and a solid kicking game, Gibson-Park’s ability to control the flow of the match will be pivotal in Leinster’s pursuit of victory against Ulster.