Castres a tougher test than was expected

Castres 16 Leinster 21

The French club’s record this season at home and in Europe had not hinted at a performance which had them heading the visitors until ten minutes from time.

Indeed, by registering the game’s only try after just five minutes with a powerful display of forward power the home side quickly gave Leinster notice that there would be no stroll in the warm sunshine of Stade Pierre Antoine.