LEINSTER HAVE SO MUCH IN RESERVE AHEAD OF BIG ONE

LEINSTER won Saturday’s derby on home soil as their ‘reserves’ strained at the bit in search of a Heineken Cup final squad place this weekend.

- DEREK FOLEY

Leinster 35 Munster 25

Full-back Jordan Larmour and second-row Ryan Baird probably had the most to gain given they are looking to get in ahead of the semi-final’s only uncapped players, Jimmy O’Brien and Ross Molony.

Man of the Match Larmour was outstanding, showcasing his clever open-field running, while Baird also put in a good shift. Both will fancy their chances of, at minimum, making the match-day 23.

Munster were left with a lot to ponder after shipping a 10-point defeat in a match they should have grabbed by the throat before and after half-time.

The URC, meanwhile, will be delighted with themselves as their cross hemisphere tournament looks like lighting up and grabbing attention come the knockouts.