URC result: Sharks still winless after Leinster lashing - The Citizen

This rugby match report covers Leinster's commanding 31-5 victory over the Sharks in the United Rugby Championship at Dublin's Aviva Stadium.

Defending champions Leinster bounced back from their disappointing South African tour with a dominant first-half performance that secured their first win of the 2024-25 season. The Irish side scored five tries through brilliant individual plays and slick set-piece moves, while the Sharks managed just one consolation score despite battling hard for territory throughout the match.

• Leinster scored four first-half tries, including standout performances from James Lowe, Jamie Osborne, and captain Josh van der Flier
• The Sharks' only try came from returning Springbok Ethan Hooker, but handling errors and penalties hampered their attacking opportunities
• Leinster secured a bonus-point victory with tries from Max Deegan and replacement hooker Gus McCarthy in the second half
• Both teams now prepare for challenging fixtures, with the Sharks hosting Ulster and Leinster facing Irish rivals Munster