Kildare Trio Feature as Leinster Overcome Scarlets in Bonus Point Aviva Win

Leinster secured a 36-19 bonus-point win over Scarlets in the URC with Jamie Osbourne, Sam Prendergast, and Jimmy O'Brien all featuring.

Leinster returned to winning ways in the URC with a 36-19 bonus-point victory over the Scarlets at the Aviva Stadium, though it was far from a flawless performance from the province.

Despite finishing with six tries, the home side struggled for consistency throughout with early indiscipline and handling errors allowing the Welsh side to stay in contention for long periods of time.

Scarlets struck first through Joe Roberts after a well-weighted grubber kick, and Leinster's problems were compounded by a series of penalties and a yellow card for Brian Deeny inside the opening quarter.

However, the hosts gradually built themselves into the game and found a rhythm. A well-worked try from Garry Ringrose, followed by a score from Joshua Kenny, gave them a narrow 12-7 lead at the break.

The game shifted decisively in the early stages of the second half, with Tommy O'Brien crossing the try line twice in quick succession to secure the bonus point, while Max Deegan and Kenny also added further tries to put daylight between the sides.

From a Kildare perspective, there was plenty to admire of local interest as Naas native Jamie Osbourne, Jimmy O'Brien, and Suncroft native Sam Prendergast all featured.

Osbourne was particularly influential in midfield, showing composure in possession and linking play effectively. The 24-year-old was routinely asked to play at full-back during the Irish Six Nations campaign, a position he has excelled at in the absence of Hugo Keenan. But he continues to grow into the inside centre role, his ability to break the line and create opportunities was evident. Playing a big part in the build-up to Leinster's attacking phases.

Jimmy O'Brien also impressed before being forced off through injury, contributing defensively with some strong interventions and offering consistent attack. His early departure will be a concern going forward for Leinster.

Prendergast was introduced in the second half and, while still developing at this level, showed glimpses of his quality with some intelligent kicking and distribution, despite one or two nervy moments.

While Leinster will no doubt be satisfied with a bonus-point win, the performance itself highlighted areas that will need improvement going forward, particularly in discipline, handling and game management.

The win sees them move up to third in the URC table, but sterner tests certainly lie ahead in Ulster and Lions if they are to build momentum in the closing stages of the campaign.