Facing off against La Rochelle in a 40-13 triumph, Leinster was tested to their limits in and around the first quarter of the match due to moments that could have brought about a repeat of previous European knockout losses. This time around, their reaction to these critical junctures proved more than effective.
The host team was leading 10-0 at the 19-minute mark when they seemed on the precipice of another score – an extensive offensive effort led by the pack seemed to have set the stage for a view of the La Rochelle line. Jamison Gibson-Park strove to utilise James Lowe’s strength to secure a try in the corner, but Leinster’s wing was blocked by the visiting side. Just a few minutes later, Leinster’s scrum-half was halted by a simultaneous tackle from Grégory Alldritt and Tolu Latu, with Tom Foley’s TMO review ruling that Gibson-Park was unable to cross the line.
Adding to their aggravation, a penalty kick was secured by La Rochelle’s outhalf, Antoine Hastoy. This could have sparked a mental relapse for Leinster, but they remained steady, thanks in large part to Ross Byrne’s accuracy, who landed two penalties and a conversion following Lowe’s skilful flick and Gibson-Park’s try. At the half-time mark, and with a 23-6 lead, Leinster looked to be in a secure position.
They faced minor annoyance in conceding two penalties at the restart, penalised both times on Caelan Doris by referee Karl Dixon. However, their dominant scoreboard standing calmed the waters. Yet, towards the end of the first half, Leinster gave up three consecutive penalties, which put La Rochelle in a favourable field position from where they managed a maul try by prop Louis Penverne. Hastoy’s subsequent conversion brightened the La Rochelle scoreboard considerably.
Leading only 23-13 at that point, some doubted Leinster who, although they had controlled the game, had made 15 missed tackles, given up seven penalties, and left room for a comeback, particularly after the first half. However, any such uncertainties were dispelled in the locker room, particularly considering La Rochelle’s known ability for significant comebacks, evidenced in the current season and specifically in last season’s finale with these two teams.
The home team’s unwavering dedication was clearly evident in Andrew Porter’s penalty turnover, paving the way for any doubts to be dispelled. Ryan Baird’s try injected a surge of energy to progress further, leading Leinster to add several more tries.
Despite adversity, such as losing Hugo Keenan, their fullback, to a recurring hip problem on the day of the game and failing to capture two prime opportunities in the first half, the collective team, along with the coaches and players, remained resilient. Instead of faltering, they found a balm to heal any wounds. Leinster consistently responded whenever La Rochelle attempted a slight comeback.