Perfection might just topple the Irish giants

LEICESTER’S weakened side travelling to La Rochelle last week put up a valiant showing.

- By IAN COCKERILL

Whether weakened by a dreadful injury list and other unavailability, or by choice, those selected largely did themselves proud in the cauldron of the Stade Marcel-Deflandre - and but for a completely destroyed scrum and the lack of a functioning lineout might well have beaten the two-time European Champions.

However, match points aren't awarded for effort, so the Tigers face the prospect of a close to “must win” game against the Irish giants.

Now, Leinster are not in a golden run of form, lying only sixth in their domestic competition and having lost three games, including one to traditional rivals Munster.