LEINSTER, the defending champions, moved a step closer to retaining their title, with a comprehensive win over Connacht in Athy RFC on Saturday.

From the kick off, Leinster took control and were eight points up after 15 minutes thanks to a Derek Darcy penalty and Jim Ferris try.

Two further Derek Darcy penalties in the 31st and 37th minutes, gave Leinster a 14-0 interval lead. Left wing Mark Fitzgerald ran in a 45 minute try and 10 minutes later, intense Leinster pressure yielded a penalty try, to put the home side 26 points clear.

Tries from Connacht's Richard Caulfield and Des McHugh, converted by Aidan O'Halloran, made it 26-12.

Leinster's Padraig Brennan scored under the posts and Richie Kelly capped a marvellous personal performance with a try in the dying minutes.