Superb Leinster Win in Headingley

Leinster overcame the adversity of the past few days to topple Newcastle 17-15 in Headingley for a victory that almost certainly assures them of a home quarter-final tie in the Heineken Cup.

And just as they had done in the Celtic League final, Leinster showed a depth of character that ultimately brought them a precious two points. They led 15-10 as the game drew to a close but then Inga Tuigamala got in for a try. However Jonny Wilkinson’s conversion drifted narrowly wide much to the relief of the Leinster players.

The sides were tied 10-10 at half time. Leinster’s try coming from Denis Hickie. Nathan Spooner added the conversion before departing with a rib injury to be replaced by Ben Willis. Tom Maye scored Newcastle’s try and Wilkinson and Brian O’Meara swopped penalties to leave it all square at the break. Willis scored the second half try that proved so crucial and despite an extra five minutes of injury time Leinster held out for a marvellous victory.