A strong set piece and tenacity at the breakdown were trademarks of Ulster’s play as first half tries from Phil Hylands and Jack Howard, along with 7 points from the boot of Robert Lyttle, earned the credible draw.
Leinster scored the game’s opening try on 3 minutes when left wing Jordan Larmour touched down on the opposite flank after some good handling. Captain Tom Foley added conversion.
Ulster pressure in Leinster’s 22 was rewarded when a drive by skipper Jonny McKeown created space for Hylands to dot down. Robert Lyttle added the conversion from the left touchline to level the scores at 7-7.
Buoyed by that score, the visitors went ahead when right winger Howard dived over, with Lyttle again adding the difficult conversion.
Jack Kelly scored unconverted tries in the 25th and 35th minute to give the hosts a 17-14 lead at the interval.
Foley had a chance to extend his team’s advantage after the break but his penalty attempt drifted wide. Hylands then went on a mazy run and after several drives further upfield, the pressure yielded a penalty 30 metres out. Lyttle elected to kick for posts and made no mistake to level the scores once more.
Ulster had further try scoring opportunities but were unable to capitalise and Leinster had a late penalty attempt that was wide of the mark.
That result means Ulster have the chance to win the series next Saturday when they host Munster at KIngspan Stadium (kick off 3.30pm).
Meanwhile, Ulster U18 Clubs lost 60-3 to Leinster at Navan RFC. They also face Munster next week at Kingspan Stadium (kick off 1.00pm).
Children aged 18 years and under will gain free entry to both the Ulster Schools and Ulster U18 Clubs fixtures, with adult tickets available for just £5. You can CLICK HERE TO BUY NOW to avoid lengthy queues at the gate. Please note that entry to this fixture is not valid with an Ulster Rugby Season Ticket.
Free parking is available within Kingspan Stadium and can be accessed only via the Mount Merrion entrance. It is strongly recommended that anyone who plans to park within the grounds should purchase tickets in advance for themselves and any passengers.
Supporters who do not require parking can enter the ground via the Onslow Parade entrance only. Gates will open 90 minutes in advance of kick off.