Investec Champions Cup pool one
Clermont Auvergne (16) 23
Tries: Jurand, Belaubre Cons: Plummer 2 Pens: Plummer 3
Leinster (15) 48
Tries: Furlong, Sheehan 2, Prendergast, penalty try, Conan, T O’Brien Cons: Prendergast 3 Pen: Prendergast
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Leinster launched their quest for an elusive fifth European title with an ultimately comprehensive bonus-point win over Clermont at Stade Marcel-Michelin.
Beaten finalists for the fifth time in eight seasons in May, Leinster head coach Leo Cullen loaded his line-up with Ireland internationals and it paid dividends in a seven-try display in their pool one opener.
While Tadhg Furlong and Dan Sheehan scored first-half tries for Leinster, the hosts edged in front before half-time thanks to Joris Jurand’s score and 11 points from the boot of fly-half Harry Plummer.
But a superb try from Prendergast within two minutes of the restart set the tone for the second half as the Irish province pulled away with a penalty try awarded before Sheehan struck for the second.
Mathys Belaubre responded for Clermont before Jack Conan and Tommy O’Brien wrapped up a convincing victory for the four-time champions.
More to follow.
