Leinster’s Rough Wins May Be More Beneficial Than Blowouts
Hugo Keenan believes that Leinster’s hard-fought win over Scarlets might serve them better than some of their recent blowout victories. “Leinster’s rough wins may be more beneficial,” he explained, especially when it comes to the high-pressure games later in the BKT United Rugby Championship. Just weeks ago, head coach Leo Cullen admitted that one-sided games, like the 62-0 rout over Harlequins or the 52-0 demolition of Glasgow in the Champions Cup, didn’t really test his squad in the way tight contests would. Even the 76-5 victory against Zebre didn’t offer much in terms of valuable lessons.
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A Sloppy Win, But Still a Win
Leinster’s recent 33-21 win over Scarlets wasn’t their best performance, but it was gritty and tough—exactly the kind of battle they need. Captain Jack Conan admitted the team looked “inaccurate” and “over-eager,” while Keenan, who was named Player of the Match, called it a case of “winning ugly.” He added, “It wasn’t pretty or perfect. We were ill-disciplined and scrappy in the first half, but sometimes that’s what it takes to get the job done.”
Adjusting to Conditions and Staying Composed
Leading by just a point at halftime, Leinster scored two quick tries in the third quarter to keep the Scarlets at bay. Keenan credited teammates Jamison Gibson-Park and Sam Prendergast for managing the game in tough conditions, especially after a heavy downpour early in the second half. “You can’t take big risks in knockout rugby,” Keenan said. “It’s more about controlling the tempo and making smart decisions.”
Critics Aren’t Convinced Yet
Despite the win, not everyone was impressed. RTÉ analysts Jamie Heaslip and Donncha O’Callaghan didn’t hold back, calling the performance “lacklustre” and “rudderless.” Dan Sheehan, who’s also preparing for the upcoming Lions tour, acknowledged the team has been trying to tune out the outside noise after their loss to Northampton. “Mentally, we’re in a good place,” he said. “We’re sticking together and supporting each other.”
Glasgow Ready for Revenge
Up next is a massive semi-final clash with defending champs Glasgow. Leinster has won nine of their last 11 meetings, but Glasgow coach Franco Smith believes things will be different this time. “Earlier this season, we had so many injuries when we faced them. This time, we’re in better shape,” he said. “If everything clicks for Leinster, they can dominate anyone. But we’re more prepared now—and that could make all the difference.
