Leinster 40 – 32 Scarlets
Leinster secured the Pro 14 title after they defeated the Scarlets in the Aviva Stadium. Here I menton the key points from this final game of the season.
Leinster complete a perfect season
Leinster have become the first side to complete the Champions Cup/Pro 14 double and they did so in impressive fashion. They ground out the win against Racing before they demolished Scarlets. They used 55 players throughout the season which showcases their impressive squad depth, while they have played free flowing rugby. This could be the start of a truly great Leinster side.
Nacewa doesn’t get his fairytale
Isa Nacewa limped off after 19 minutes of the final as it was the complete opposite to his European departure where he hit 6 points to guide Leinster to the title. Although he limped off, he knows that he has left Leinster in a better place and he has completed the double in his final season. He has been a great servant to Leinster and Irish rugby.
Larmour lights up the final
Jordan Larmour scored the try of the game when he kicked ahead and completed a sensational one handed pick-up before diving over. He noticed that there was no one home for Scarlets and his kick was spot on before he sped past the Scarlets players. Joe Schmidt will have enjoyed the try and it served further notice of Larmour’s undeniable potential.
Scarlets face a nightmare in Leinster
Scarlets suffered another defeat to Leinster in a knock-out game as they fell to a comprehensive defeat. The eight point losing margin flattered the Welsh side who were second best for long periods. Leinster suffocated last year’s champions as they went through the phases before Sexton pinged them back in their own half. Scarlets are a dangerous attacking side but they simply could not get their hands on the ball.
Sexton the master
Johnny Sexton enjoyed another brilliant game as he guided them to more silverware. He received late hits but they motivated him. His kicking was on point as was his running game. His decision to go for the try when 3 points were on at the end of the half was excellent as he played James Lowe in. He has won all 19 games that he has played with Leinster this season and he is the glue that holds the team together.
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