Leinster 31-19 Ospreys - Who impressed?
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An impressive first half performance from Leinster was enough to see of a resiliant Ospreys side. The big names made a massive difference to the Irish provence as they produced a home performance to be proud of. Here's the 3 players who impressed us the most tonight.
1. Josh van der Flier
The undisputed Man of the Match, Josh van der Flier was highly impressive and dominant throughout at openside. With two tries to his name, the young back rower caused major problems from the Ospreys defence all game, showing both his power and pace in his superb solo try. Consistent performances at this quality and he will continue to cause selection headaches for not just Leo Cullen but Joe Schmidt also.
2. Jonathan Sexton
Sexton's first game in the No. 10 shirt for Leinster this season was not one to forget. Completely dominant over his opposite man, Dan Biggar, Sexton was instrumental in controlling the game for the home side. Clinical with the boot, the fly-half kept the Ospreys defence guessing all game, not to mention his 100% (5/5) place kick record. Just as good with ball in hand, Sexton was fully deserved of his try just on the stroke of halftime.
3. Sam Davies
Moved to full-back this weekend to make way for Biggar, the young Welshman was a prominent figure in the Ospreys' late fightback. Despite being starved of possession, Davies showed his class with the boot where possible, giving the Leinster back three headaches all evening with his territorial kicking game. His running game was just as impressive, and was directly responsible for Ospreys' third try through James King. An all in all good outing from Davies despite the outcome.