Defending champions Leinster confirmed their class in Dublin with a dominant first-half show that left the Sharks chasing shadows on the Aviva Stadium on Saturday.
It was a case of house comforts for the Irishmen as they ran in 5 tries to beat the Sharks 31-5 and register their first win of the competitors, after a troubled tour of South Africa the place they went right down to the Stormers and Vodacom Bulls.
Kitted of their extra iconic blue jerseys, Leinster wanted simply 10 minutes to strike. A second of particular person brilliance from returning British & Irish Lion James Lowe set it up – the winger’s deft grubber sitting up completely for fullback Jamie Osborne to complete, with Harry Byrne including the extras.
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The Sharks battled for territory however couldn’t capitalise, undone by dealing with errors and a key penalty. Leinster doubled their benefit by way of a slick set-piece transfer completed by Jimmy O’Brien, earlier than captain Josh van der Flier burst by way of untouched for a 3rd attempt moments later.
There was some pleasure for the guests when returning Springbok Ethan Hooker plucked a excessive ball and sprinted clear to attain, however Jean Smith’s conversion sailed extensive to go away the Sharks trailing 21-5 at half time.
Ethan Hooker brings his Springbok type to the #VURC 😤🦈
He will get the Sharks on the board 🔢
📺 Stream on DStv: https://t.co/0P0NNhnwKw pic.twitter.com/e8swBIMCcd
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) October 11, 2025
The Sharks got here out within the second half with good defensive intent, however Leinster’s assault was simply too good. Some slick dealing with down the blindside noticed huge No 8 Max Deegan crash over for the Irishmen’s bonus-point attempt.
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A botched lineout from the Sharks, 9 minutes from time, led to substitute hooker Gus McCarthy sliding over to place the outcome past doubt.
The Sharks are again house subsequent week, the place they’ll host Ulster whereas Leinster brace for a derby in opposition to fellow Irish giants Munster.
LEINSTER – Tries: Jamie Osborne, Jimmy O’Brien, Josh van der Flier, Max Deegan, Gus McCarthy Conversions: Harry Byrne (3).
SHARKS – Strive: Ethan Hooker.
Photograph: X/@leinsterrugby
