In Pics: Llanelli 20 Leinster 18

Pictured above: Irish international Denis Hickie powering over for a late try for Leinster, which Felipe Contepomi agonisingly missed the conversion of for a draw. Winger Hickie, on as a replacement for Leinster and Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll, was making only his second appearance for the province since dislocating his right fibula in October. Hickie’s try was his 20th in Celtic League history, bringing him closer to record holder Matthew Watkins of the Scarlets (21).

Leinster fly-half Felipe Contepomi attempts to convert Denis Hickie’s 87th-minute minute try, but his kick comes back off the post.

Llanelli number 8 Alix Popham tries to barge through the tackle of Leinster scrum half Guy Easterby.

Malcolm O’Kelly flings a lineout take back to Guy Easterby with lift support from Jamie Heaslip (left) and Will Green (right).

Leinster’s Shane Horgan and Llanelli captain and flanker Simon Easterby, who took over the captaincy role from the injured Brian O’Driscoll for two of Ireland’s recent autumn internationals, compete for a high ball at Stradey Park.

Leinster and Ireland centre Brian O’Driscoll prepares to tackle the onrushing Mark Jones of Llanelli. O’Driscoll put in another encouraging hour-long cameo as he continued his return to match fitness after a lengthy spell on the sidelines with a dislocated right shoulder.

Gordon D’Arcy, who is looking a certainty to start the Six Nations in the Ireland number 12 shirt beside Brian O’Driscoll, runs in for his fifth-minute try against the Scarlets. Showing good form, D’Arcy’s effort was his fourth try in five outings for Leinster – he also scored against Bourgoin (twice) and Ulster last month.

**All photos by Huw Evans on behalf of Inpho Photography**