Easterby: We’ll Have To Be ‘Right On Our Game’

With a bonus point taken from the match against the Ospreys, and with a four-point lead at the top of the RaboDirect PRO12 table, Leinster are in a strong position going into the final three games of the league phase.

A win against the Ospreys last weekend would have all but secured a home semi-final, and Leinster team manager Guy Easterby says the players were disappointed not to leave with the four points.

“I think physically we turned up at the weekend. We were disappointed that we didn’t win the game because that’s why we went there and that’s the way we look at every game,” he said.

With the season in its latter stages, and every point proving to be crucial, Easterby stresses the importance of Leinster being in control of their own destiny going into the final three PRO12 matches.

“We’ve got three games to go and we’re in pole position. If we win all three games then we end up at the top of the table, which is obviously important to us.”

Before a potential PRO12 semi-final or final can enter the mind, however, the focus will be on a return to the RDS this weekend and the challenge posed by a Benetton Treviso team that are looking for back-to-back victories in the PRO12.

“We can’t really look past Treviso at this stage because they’re a decent side who are fighting for that Italian qualification spot in Europe,” explained the former Leinster and Ireland scrum half.

“They’re fighting it out with Zebre and got a good win at the weekend, a bonus point win against the Dragons, but they need another win or two to guarantee that.”

With Leinster maintaining a strong position in the PRO12, Easterby says this Friday’s match is vital if they want to stay at the top of the table and guarantee a home semi-final, and a possible home final.

“In the PRO12 we’re ahead of where we were last year with three games to go, but it’s obviously of vital importance that we stay at the top of the table, which is crucial in terms of a home semi-final and, you would hope, a home final. We have to make sure that we’re right on our game this week.”

Leinster issued an injury update today, stating that Luke Fitzgerald trained this week but will continue to be monitored on a day-to-day basis.

Fergus McFadden’s knee injury is not as bad as first feared and he should make a return before the end of the season.

Jack McGrath has trained well this week and will be available for the Treviso game, while fellow prop Tadhg Furlong is progressing well and should be available for selection from next week.

Tickets for the Leinster v Benetton Treviso match at the RDS are available to buy here.