Weekend Round Up

Weekend Round Up

The first match day weekend of 2016 is over, and while it may not be remembered as the best weekend of action when the year comes to an end, there was still good performances across Europe. Here we will have a look back at all of the action across Europe on a rain soaked weekend of rugby.

Guinness Pro12

We begin with the Guinness Pro12, where stormy conditions kept scores low across Ireland Scotland and Wales. On Friday Gary Ringrose again impressed as Leinster laboured to a 13-0 win over Connacht. Conditions were appalling in Dublin, with only one try scored by Josh Van Der Flier. Penalties from Sexton and Madigan closed out the win, but Connacht fans may be somewhat aggrieved with some refereeing decisions that went against them on the night, particularly the awarding of the try, when the grounding seemed shaky at best. 

Ulster fell at home against a stubborn Munster side, 7-9 the final score. This result will have redeemed Ian Keatley somewhat after poor kicking displays in recent weeks, with all the Munster points coming from his boot. 

On Saturday evening Edinburgh edged out Glasgow in a typically tight Scottish derby, a late Burleigh try enough to secure an 11-14 win. But game of the week from the Pro12 was easily Cardiff vs Llanelli on the all weather pitch in the Arms Park. The Scarlets had led 10-20 at the half time interval, but a strong second half showing from the home side saw Dan Fish and Kristian Dacey score, before a last minute try from MOTM Rhys Patchell secured a thrilling 29-27 victory.

Aviva Premiership

All 12 teams were in action this weekend, but the pick of the performances came from Newcastle on Saturday afternoon. Their early season struggles looked a thing of the past as they dispatched Bath to claim there first win of the season. 

In what must have seemed like the eye of a storm, Craig Willis managed to land 4 penalties for the home side, which proved to be the difference in a 19-14 victory. Saracens continued their unbeaten season in all competitions with a routine 26-6 dismantling of Leicester. This looked like it could be the league leaders toughest test of the year, but in truth Sarries were never troubled in the bonus point display. 

The poor weather continued on into Sunday, with Worcester’s clash with Harlequins being played in the muck in the West midlands. Quins roared into the lead with 2 Walker tries before Worcester staged a great comeback in the second half. In the end Worcester were forced to settle for the losing bonus point, going down 20-24.