Watch: Thief in the night Jordan Larmour snatches match-defining intercept

Leinster young gun Jordan Larmour came up with a decisive intercept at the Rec to propel the defending champions of Europe to a tight away win over Bath.

Another special moment from this man tonight ? #BATvLEI pic.twitter.com/q2DIEi4jH5

— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) December 8, 2018

In wet conditions, a 7-7 deadlock presented at halftime with Bath bringing the fight. The hosts scored the opening try after 20 minutes to take an early lead through Henry Thomas before Leinster hit back through Sean Cronin.

Early in the second half Bath’s flyhalf James Wilson, who was brought in on a short-term contract to fill a need after injuries to Freddie Burns and Rhys Priestland, attempted an ill-fated long cutout pass.

Larmour made a play on the ball and snatched it, before racing away 50-metres to score under the posts and land a crucial blow. The sides traded penalties in the poor conditions and Leinster took a 17-10 win to briefly take back top spot in Pool One.

Jordan Larmour is lightning ??

Leinster lead for the first time thanks to an intercept try!

You're just not catching him… pic.twitter.com/XZHxXxdrLF

— Rugby on TNT Sports (@rugbyontnt) December 8, 2018

Leinster lock James Ryan was awarded Man-of-the-Match for his effort in the win.

“We got some good drives, scoring that maul try and our scrum was pretty good too, but we let ourselves down a bit in the first half.

“When the internationals were away, the guys that stepped in did a super job. The squad’s really strong at the moment but it will be another tough one in the Aviva next week,” he said.

"Really tough place to come, especially today".

A pleased James Ryan reacting to a 7 point win for his Leinster team.#ChampionsCup #ERCC pic.twitter.com/ICQcjg3IlY

— eir Sport (@eirSport) December 8, 2018

The match was brought into some pre-match controversy when Bath officials banned Leinster supporters from bringing in supporter flags, which reportedly failed a health and safety test presenting a ‘fire risk’.

In an official statement on social media Bath apologised to the Leinster fans.

“We’re really sorry – the flags were tested against three safety criteria & failed all three including fire. We have to take safety seriously, but we realise it’s disappointing. We’re really looking forward to the game & we know you’ll bring the noise to the Rec today.”

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