Leinster fall at first hurdle

Edinburgh 16 Leinster 9: Leinster’s hopes of opening their Guinness Pro12 season with a victory were shattered last night by an Edinburgh side that showed more flair with ball in hand and which had a more aggressive back row.

But in a World Cup season the Guinness Pro12 teams have to field fringe and younger players and in this context Leinster were able to give exposure to the likes of out-half Ross Byrne, who came off the bench during the second half and played impressively.

After a tentative start, the deadlock was broken when Isa Nacewa kicked a penalty goal following a high tackle on outside half Cathal Marsh.