Leinster's nail-biting victory against La Rochelle in the 2025/26 Investec Champions Cup was a true test of grit and determination. It was a hard-fought win, with Leinster clawing their way to a 25-24 victory after a messy, frantic match.
Let's dive into the player ratings:
Paddy McCarthy - 7: He faced a significant size disadvantage against Uini Atonio, but he held his own. McCarthy showed strong defensive reads early on and contributed around the pitch. However, he faded after a collision and had to leave the game early.
Dan Sheehan - 7: He could have had a try, nearly scoring off a lineout. Sheehan worked tirelessly in contact and shut down a dangerous La Rochelle surge late in the game.
Thomas Clarkson - 6: He was busy early in the game, but struggled in the second half as La Rochelle turned up the pressure. His scrum also faltered, but he gave an honest effort.
Joe McCarthy - 8: He spent much of the game marking Will Skelton effectively. His big carries, tackles, and a vital turnover were key. Though his yellow card shifted momentum, his overall contribution was massive.
James Ryan - 6.5: He was workmanlike and effective, running Leinster’s lineout well and contributing defensively.
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Josh van der Flier - 8: He was relentless from start to finish. He carried into heavy traffic and finished a stunning solo try in the 66th minute.
Caelan Doris - 7: He was heavily involved without being spectacular, doing plenty of unseen work in tight exchanges.
Jamison Gibson-Park - 6.5: He provided sharp early service, but struggled in the second half. He missed too many tackles.
Sam Prendergast - 5.5: He was instrumental in Leinster’s fast start, but his influence waned as the game progressed. His kicking choices were questionable.
Joshua Kenny - 8: He had a dream Champions Cup debut with two well-taken tries. He was less secure in the second period.
Robbie Henshaw - 8: He led Leinster for tackles and showed grit in defense. He finished his late try superbly.
Rieko Ioane - 6: He had a first-class work rate and a brilliant charge down, but defensive issues were glaring.
Tommy O’Brien - 8.5: He was Leinster’s sharpest player, constantly asking questions and unlucky to receive a yellow card. He was outstanding.
Ciaran Frawley - NA: He was injured after 12 minutes and unable to be rated.
Substitutions:
Ronan Kelleher - 6: He brought energy in the final quarter.
Jerry Cahir - 7: He coped admirably, winning penalties and looking comfortable.
Andrew Sparrow - NA: Unused.
Diarmuid Mangan - NA: Unused.
Max Deegan - 6: He did the basics.
Luke McGrath - NA: Too little time to rate.
Harry Byrne - 8: He showed nerves of steel, with the winning penalty.
Andrew Osborne - 5.5: He struggled defensively.
Leinster's victory was a testament to their resilience, but what do you think? Did the player ratings accurately reflect the game's intensity, or were there any performances you'd rate differently?
