Champions Cup: Leinster 45 Harlequins 28Leinster got there in the end with the anticipated bonus point although the scoreline could not mask more imperfections in both attack and defence. A young, remodelled and hitherto misfiring Harlequins also took a bonus point from a low-key pre-festive “marquee” fixture which was more ho-hum than ho-ho-ho. Photograph: Niall Carson/PAOn a wintry night in Ballsbridge, the musical interludes were, as always, an accurate barometer of the atmosphere. Maybe the home crowd were even more expectant of a rout after Leinster jumped off the blocks. Hardly a scrum ended up without a penalty, three of the first four going to Leinster and giving them plenty of access.

Source: The Irish Times December 07, 2025 12:11 UTC