Leinster edge out Connacht by 21-18 in Dublin

Leinster 21 - 18 Connacht, Dublin

Leinster successfully managed to overcome desperate efforts from Connacht as they went on to win the Pro 14 encounter in Dublin with a 21-18 margin.

Jack Carty kicked a second-minute penalty to kick the proceedings for Connacht but four minutes later Leinster went on to level the scores following a three-pointer from Jonny Sexton.

The scores remained levelled 3-3 heading into the second quarter and Sexton's second penalty provided Leinster a three-point lead and three minutes later number eight Max Deegan scored a converted try to stretch the home side's lead to eight points.

Unwilling to relent, Connacht ended the first half strong with Finlay Bealham going past the line and Carty kicking a penalty and a conversion on either side to take the scoreline to 11-13.

A long-range 49th-minute penalty from Sexton edged the hosts back in front, and with more of referee Ben Whitehouse's decisions going Leinster's way, the home side had the platform to push ahead.

It was Luke McGrath, who provided some breathing space to Leinster with a try at the start of the final quarter and a conversion from Sexton made it 19-13.

Back came Connacht, their skipper Muldoon and Ultan Dillane going close before Healy wrong-footed both McFadden and Sexton to raid in from the left wing. McFadden was fortunate to be still on the pitch after previously taking out Tiernan O'Halloran in the air.

The gap remained at three points as fly-half Carty missed the conversion on the near side, and he also failed to find touch from a late penalty. Connacht regrouped for one final push but Leinster's robust defence held them at bay.