Leinster tore into the Ospreys with a ruthless 68–14 win at the Aviva, powered by Joe McCarthy’s hat‑trick, a suffocating defensive press, and big returns for Jordan Larmour and James Lowe. Jeff is joined by Ciarán Duffy (Post to Post Sport) for cap number 47 to break down the performance, the selection calls, the defensive resurgence, and what it all means heading into the Champions Cup Final.
We also take a spin around the URC — Munster clinching playoffs, Connacht’s late push, Ulster’s Challenge Cup wrinkle — plus Ireland Women’s record-setting Aviva win.
A full URC season rewind, a look ahead to Bordeaux, and plenty of Harpin flavour.
THIS WEEK’S GUEST
FULL TIME TAKES
Cormac Mannion
No injuries by the looks of it and hopefully Tommy was not started merely as a precaution. I thought Lowe was in with a chance of starting next week but bloody hell Larmour had an absolute stormer. Lowe was out on his feet by the end of the game.
Henshaw had a huge amount of strapping in his right leg so no idea if it’s him or Osborne who start at 12 next week.
If Tommy is fit, I can see 21-23 being McGrath, Frawley and Larmour. It gives a lot of cover across the backline.
Starting to get slightly upbeat about next Saturday 🙈
Conor Cronin
I’ve wondered how much we learned in the past from massive wins like these, but the confidence it will give players next week is worth it. Let these players believe how good they are. Let them build on tonight for next week. Bordeaux have conceded 70+ points over the last 2 weeks, we’ve scored 90+, let’s get out next week and be at our best
Greg Kelly
That was a game that was on the schedule for the Ospreys and they were contracted to fulfill it. They looked from minute one like condemned men going to their death.
Plus side for Leinster was the skill level was on average higher than it has been with there were some sloppy defensive reads that UBB will punish if they happen next week
Christy O’Connor
That was probably our most complete performance all season. Yes Osprey’s were awful, but we have played teams just as poor this season and limped to a win.
Great seeing Lowe and Larmour back as well as scoring tries. Going to be a whole different challenge next week though.
Colm Cunningham
Saved the best till last. Hopefully a sign of whats to come next weekend. 🤞
Cobus Tromp
Slaughter..No other word comes to mind.
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