THE OPENING 20 minutes of Ulster v Leinster were some of the most exciting of the season and featured a few moments of immense physicality and skill. Ulster out-half Paddy Jackson has had a frustrating injury-interrupted season and last Friday was a great chance to force himself back into the World Cup picture.
His slashing break in the build-up to Iain Henderson’s try was just what he needed. Not only did he do well to wriggle between two tacklers, he also put opposite number Jimmy Gopperth on his backside with a ferocious bit of power.
Ian Madigan was Johnny Sexton’s number two during the Six Nations but if Jackson can finish the season strongly, there is a chance for him to usurp the Leinster back.
Madigan will suffer from Leinster not being involved in the Pro12 playoffs while his Ulster rival should have a few more chances to impress in big games.
One bright spot to come out of the game for Leinster was Ben Te’o's continued progression with the ball in hand. The Kiwi has shown that he has a great eye for a running line and after last week’s big fend on Mathieu Bastareaud, Ulster eight Roger Wilson was the recipient this time.
Ulster host Munster in two weeks time in a game that will likely decide which province gets the luxury of a home semi-final.
Here’s hoping it reaches the same level of intensity that Friday’s game did.
