Leinster struggles as Leo Cullen calls out lineout failure

On December 14, 2024, in a competitive match held in France, Leinster managed to secure a narrow 15-7 victory against Clermont. The match was marked by a significant physical presence from both sides, resulting in a game that showcased resilience along with a fierce display of defensive skills. However, despite their victory, Leinster's head coach Leo Cullen was left frustrated by the team's performance, especially highlighting issues with their lineout execution. The match demonstrated a high tempo, particularly in the first half, where both teams exchanged attacking opportunities relentlessly. The first half of the match saw Leinster take an early lead, showcasing their offensive capabilities. They landed two crucial tries just minutes apart, which initially suggested they might dominate the game. However, Clermont’s defense proved to be robust, allowing them to keep the scoreline tight. During the match, moments of intense physicality were evident, especially through the exchanges of both forward packs that delivered hard hits, making it a test of endurance as much as skill. As the game progressed, both teams seemed to experience fatigue; Clermont's front five notably looked exhausted during breaks in play, indicating the demanding pace that characterized the match. This displayed a contrast to the usual game rhythm seen in their domestic Top 14 league, where the ball-in-play time is significantly different. Leinster appeared to be challenged more than expected by Clermont, who capitalized on the lapses during set pieces, particularly the lineout failure which was a cause for concern for Cullen. In his post-match remarks, Leo Cullen’s frustration reflected the need for improvement in areas where the team has traditionally been strong. Even though Leinster emerged victorious, the performance did not align with the high standards they aspire to, raising questions about their preparedness for future challenges. This match turned out to be an educational experience, exposing potential weaknesses that may need addressing ahead of their upcoming fixtures as they aim for greater consistency and effectiveness on the field.