Paddy Jackson kicks Ulster to thrilling victory

Paddy Jackson's three penalty kicks were enough for Ulster to register a win.
Paddy Jackson's three penalty kicks were enough for Ulster to register a win.
©PA

Ulster 9 - 7 Leinster, Belfast

Paddy Jackson scored three penalties, including the decisive last-minute kick as Ulster edge out Ospreys in a thrilling 9-7 win on Saturday.

Nicky Smith started the proceedings for Ospreys with a fifth minute try and with Dan Biggar's conversion, they went on to take a seven point lead. Jackson's 28th minute penalty allowed Ulster to reduce the gap to four points as they game headed into the half-time.

Four minutes into the second half, Jackson scored his second penalty, but missed another three-pointer few minutes later which could have got Ulster into the lead.

Desperate defence from Ospreys led the game into stalemate with both teams not scoring a point in the next 35 minutes. In the 66th minute, Eli Walker almost scored Ospreys' second try but was denied by Jared Payne's last minute tackle.

Biggar's attempt at a drop goal in the closing stage went in vain but Jackson with his 79th minute penalty kick ensured Ulster managed to win the game 9-7.

With five wins from as many games in the ongoing season, Ulster continue to top the Pro12 table while Ospreys who were handed the second defeat of the season are positioned fifth.