Leinster vs Scarlets

So back to the playing CV.
His debut was in February 2018 off the bench
against today’s opposition, Scarlets, and a
start against the Southern Kings wasn’t far
behind.
Since then he has kept adding experience and
minutes and while a few niggly injuries have
hampered his progress he is also realistic and
more than happy with his trajectory.
“It’s been good. For me, it’s not like I just
landed into PRO14 games or European
games and started, I had to be patient and I
had to earn those opportunities.
“It started with being a sub for B&I Cup
games, then I started in the B&I Cup. Then
from there it was off the bench in the PRO14,
then a start against the Kings.
“All the time building the level of exposure and
experience. Of course you want more and you
want to kick-on but there is also the realisation
that the steps are there for a reason.
“Hopefully when the chances come your way,
you can take them.”
And the chances did come.
Three PRO14 appearances in his first season.
Then 11 caps in the 2018/19 season. And
then to the 2019/20 season and his European
debut against Northampton Saints and two
conversions to his name for good measure.
Covid-19 put a sudden halt to everyone’s
plans that season.
But then to 2020/21 and the final step on the
Leinster Rugby ladder and a real coming of
age moment for all players.
The European start.
This was no ordinary Heineken Champions
Cup fare either with qualification maybe
secure already.
This was Round 1 and away in France to
Montpellier. A tough litmus test for the most
experienced of professionals.
It couldn’t have gone much better for him
though.
He played well in the 12 jersey and scored
Leinster’s second try on the way to a 14-35
win in the Altrad Stadium.
Good times. But missing those that make them
great times.
www.leinsterrugby.ie | 19