Leinster focus on accuracy after strong Champions Cup start

Leinster head coach Leo Cullen says his side will need more control in key areas this week as they look to build on their bonus-point win over Harlequins in the Investec Champions Cup at the Aviva Stadium.

Harlequins travelled to Dublin with a squad short of 15 players due to injuries and rest protocols, but still posed problems before Leinster pulled clear to secure a 17-point victory and score seven tries.

Cullen said the most concerning aspect was the number of “cheap turnovers” around the breakdown. He added that Leinster were sometimes too desperate to score, taking passes too close to the defensive line and being tackled immediately.

“Some of those cheap turnovers around the breakdown," said Cullen,

"That's probably the big thing, and when we get close to the try line, we're over eager to get to the try line as quick as possible. Whereas sometimes we're taking passes right on the line and we're getting hit, man and ball.

“Considering the conditions were quite greasy, it's just that bit of composure close to the try line, but it's also some of our work around the breakdown. Probably those are the big two ones. That's how you score points, ultimately."

Leinster opened the scoring through Jordan Larmour, but Harlequins hit back via Luke Northmore’s converted try on 12 minutes before the Irish province regained control.

“We’re happy with the result, but there are elements we need to tidy up,” he said.

“That’s how you score points and control games. We need to be sharper with our breakdown work and show patience when we’re close to the line.”