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Leinster player ratings vs Bulls | 2023/24 URC
By Ian Cameron
Leinster player ratings: In a contest that tested Leinster’s mettle, the side found themselves up against the formidable physicality of Jake White’s Bulls.
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Here’s how Leinster – who were greatly flattered by the scoreline – fared individually against the robust challenge presented by the Bulls:
1. Cian Healy – 5
Healy found himself in the thick of the fray, his experience tested by the Bulls’ formidable front row. Despite a valiant effort, the South African pack’s power occasionally overshadowed his contributions.
2. Ronan Kelleher – 6.5
Kelleher’s darts and runs into contact highlighted his performance, yet the visitors’ relentless pressure at set-pieces posed a significant challenge, testing his resolve.
3. Michael Alaalatoa – 4
Facing off against the Bulls’ scrummaging might, Alaalatoa struggled badly, getting penalised in the first three scrums. An off day for the usually reliable prop in the face of relentless set-piece pressure.
4. Ross Molony – 7.5
In contrast to the scrums, Molony’s dominance in the lineout was a key attacking platform for Leinster. His contributions were especially notable in Leinster’s catch-and-drive game, where he consistently shone.
5. Joe McCarthy – 7
The young lock showed flashes of brilliance, grappling with the physical demands of the match. His resilience in the face of the Bulls’ brute force was noteworthy, making him one of the better performers in the home pack.
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6. Ryan Baird – 7
Had a great personal battle with Elrigh Louw. His athleticism shone through, even as he navigated the physical maze posed by the Bulls. His agility and work rate were highlights in a game that demanded a lot from the back row.
7. Josh van der Flier – 7.5
In a game that tested grit – not least a nasty-looking collision with the posts – van der Flier stood tall, his breakdown work and ball carrying catching the eye.
8. Jack Conan – 8
Conan’s efforts at number eight were tireless, yet the tactical and physical challenge presented by the Bulls limited his usual impact in the first half. Linked up well with his back division, even if he found himself in no-man’s land for Kurtley Arendse’s try. Grew into the match, with his heavy-duty carrying proving vital as South African wills wilted, his 68th-minute try sealing the deal.
9. Luke McGrath – 5
McGrath found the going tough as the South Africans’ defence pressured him into quick decisions, a scenario that stifled his ability to dictate the game’s pace. Clattered himself trying to tackle Kurt-Lee Arendse as the Bok winger scored in the 34th minute, and was yellow-carded for his trouble. Didn’t return.
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10. Harry Byrne – 6
His vision and decision-making under pressure helped to unlock the Bulls’ defence on several occasions, once he got to grips with their rush defence. However, unforced errors took the shine off an otherwise solid outing.
11. James Lowe – 7
Lowe’s usually reliable boot was off-mark, leading to missed opportunities and a lack of the usual territorial advantage he provides. His involvement in the match fluctuated, with moments of his characteristic brilliance interspersed with periods where he seemed less engaged. Came alive in the 44th minute, slicing through the Bulls’ defence to score a remarkable try.
12. Jamie Osborne – 7
Osborne’s midfield play was characterized by effective lines of running and deft handling, troubling the Bulls’ defence throughout the match. His partnership in the Henshaw was impressive.
13. Robbie Henshaw – 6.5
Henshaw’s experience was crucial in Leinster’s midfield battles, yet even he found the Bulls’ defensive line a tough nut to crack. His defensive work was tireless, although opportunities to shine on the attack were scarce.
14. Rob Russell – 6
Russell’s agility and pace in attack were instrumental in creating space and opportunities. His defensive abilities are another matter; getting bounced at one point by the 80kg Arendse and falling off makable tackles shouldn’t be on the menu if he wants to progress.
15. Jordan Larmour – 8
Larmour’s attempt to weave his magic from the back was evident, even when space was at a premium. The Bulls’ coverage did their best but couldn’t stop the fullback from cutting them asunder in the lead-up to van der Flier’s try and was instrumental in the lead up to Milne’s try. Starting to find the form and confidence that typified his early career.
REPLACEMENTS:
16. Dan Sheehan – 7.5
Coming off the bench, Sheehan injected energy and dynamism, challenging the Bulls with his physicality and keen sense of the game. His upfield hoof in the 58th minute lifted morale.
17. Michael Milne – 8
Milne’s scoring prowess was on display once again, contributing vital points with another try while also holding his own in the scrums.
18. Tadhg Furlong – 7
Furlong’s entry was a boost, contributing to a theretofore lacklustre Leinster scrum.
19. Jason Jenkins – 6
Jenkins aimed to shore up the lineout and add grunt in the tight exchanges. His efforts were commendable and added some beef to the Leinster forward pack.
20. Caelan Doris – 6
Doris’s versatility and work rate off the bench were crucial. His attempts to disrupt the Bulls’ rhythm showcased his skill set, even in the face of a formidable opponent.
21. Jamison Gibson-Park – 8
After replacing McGrath, who was off for an HIA, Gibson-Park brought a noticeable urgency and directness to the game, his energetic play providing Leinster with a much-needed spark and tempo in their attack.
22. Ross Byrne – 7
Stepping in with a steadier hand than his younger sibling, Byrne’s composed playmaking offered Leinster a reliable guiding force to close the game out.
23. Liam Turner – 7
Coming on for Robbie Henshaw at the 49th minute, Turner made a significant impact, capping his performance with a crucial late try in the 74th minute that highlighted his nose for the line.
