Newcomers UCD give Lansdowne early shock

Reigning champions Lansdowne were warned that life could be tough in this season’s Ulster Bank League when they lost their seasonal opener at home to newcomers UCD on Saturday.

The students survived three first half yellow cards without conceding a try and they were just a point adrift at the break, 8-9. But the second half was a stroll as they completed a 27-14 win.

Dolphin stormed to the top of the table after a bonus point victory away to Garryowen, while Young Munster enjoyed a fine on the road win against St Mary’s College.