Saturday’s commanding win at the Aviva Stadium puts Leinster into their first European final since 2012 and now the Dublin side look on course to seal a first-ever PRO14 and Champions Cup double.
The home side were well-structured, efficient in attack and resolute in defence as they dismantled Scarlets 38-16 in an one-sided semi-final.
Scarlets – the reigning PRO14 champions – didn’t bring the energy required and had few chances to light up the game, with Leinster more ruthless and clinical with and without the ball.
Wayne Pivac’s side didn’t look like they believed in their pace and game plan, but when you have attackers coming at you with such speed and aggression it is easy to tire and make mistakes.
The Blues were utterly dominant – they carried well, their execution in attack and defence was accurate and they got over the gain line too easily, scoring five tries in a virtuoso display.
If it turns out to be a Leinster vs Munster final, should we just save the trip across to Spain and let it be played at Croke Park? 😂😝.. jokes joke.. all the best to all the teams!. Thanks for sorting my weekend out. #couchpotato
— nemzy (@nemani_nadolo) April 21, 2018
Any time they got the ball in their hands they looked like scoring.
Scott Fardy may have picked up the man-of-the-match award for his totemic performance, but overall the pack was oustanding.
From the industrious work of Cian Healy in the loose right through to towering lock James Ryan and Jordi Murphy at No8, Leinster purred with dominance and were able to provide quick ball to get Leinster on the front foot each time.
In the backs, Jamison Gibson-Park looked like Aaron Smith with his ball distribution and consistency, Johnny Sexton scored a try and added 13 points and the defensive pairing of Robbie Henshaw and Garry Ringrose were instrumental.
Henshaw, in particular, deserves a special mention for his stellar showing.
This Leinster side is very good.
— Brian Moore (@brianmoore666) April 21, 2018
Returning just 10 weeks after shoulder recontruction, the 24-year-old looked dominant in collisions and his carrying in midfield put Leinster in control.
With Ringrose on his outside, both men produced a defensive masterclass and will be key to Leinster’s chances on May 12.
With three weeks to go until the final in Bilbao, Leinster can sit back and reflect on a positive season to date with a play-off spot in the PRO14 already secured.
In what has been a promising and highly satisfying season to date, Leo Cullen’s men look unstoppable as they go in search of a dream double.
