Ulster Secure Playoff Spot with Last-Minute Heroics Against Leinster
In a thrilling Round 17 encounter at Kingspan Stadium, Ulster scrum-half John Cooney’s decisive late penalty secured a 23-21 victory over provincial rivals Leinster. The hosts fought hard throughout, scoring two tries through Rob Herring and Jacob Stockdale, with Cooney’s accurate kicking proving crucial as he added two conversions and three penalties.
Leinster managed to cross the whitewash on three occasions, with Charlie Ngatai, Cormac Foley, and Michael Ala’alatoa all touching down. However, Harry Byrne’s successful conversions were not enough to prevent the visitors from suffering a narrow defeat.
“Despite leading for large periods, Leinster managed to secure a valuable losing bonus point, ensuring they finish in the top four ahead of their European Champions Cup final clash with Toulouse next week.”
After a closely contested opening, Ulster took the lead through Herring’s try, which was awarded following a review by referee Andrea Piardi. Leinster quickly leveled the scores, with Ngatai touching down after a charge-down by Will Connors.
The visitors then edged ahead in the 29th minute, as Foley crossed the line after a break by Hugo Keenan. Cooney’s penalty reduced the deficit to four points before the break.
Shortly after the restart, Cooney’s second penalty cut Leinster’s lead to a single point, but the visitors extended their advantage when Ala’alatoa powered over the line. Stockdale’s late interception try set up a grandstand finish, and Cooney’s nerveless long-range penalty in the closing stages sealed a crucial victory for Ulster, securing their place in the playoffs.
This hard-fought triumph at Kingspan Stadium will be a significant boost for the Ulster squad as they look to continue their strong run of form in the latter stages of the season.
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