Leinster hold off Ulster fightback in URC thriller

Leinster hold off Ulster fightback in URC thrillerImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Leinster built a commanding 29-0 lead before Ulster hit backPublished28 minutes ago2 CommentsUnited Rugby Championship round 15Ulster (0) 21Tries: B Ward, Z Ward 2 Cons: Doak 3 Leinster (15) 29Tries: Culhane, J O'Brien, Henshaw, Prendergast Cons: Prendergast 3 Pens: PrendergastLeinster survived a stirring second-half comeback from Ulster to win a thrilling Irish derby in Belfast and move above their rivals in the United Rugby Championship standings.The visitors dominated the first half and led 15-0 through James Culhane and Jimmy O'Brien tries.Robbie Henshaw and Sam Prendergast secured Leinster's bonus point and extended the advantage to 29-0 after 55 minutes to set Leo Cullen's side on course for a dominant win. But Ulster came roaring back with three tries from the Ward brothers - one from Bryn and two from Zac - to rock Leinster, who were reduced to 14 men when Max Deegan's yellow card for a high hit on Werner Kok was upgraded to a 20-minute red.Despite that surge of momentum, Ulster were unable to find two late scores as Leinster held on for a big late-season win. The result means Leinster replace Ulster in third place in the table with three rounds of regular-season games remaining before the play-offs.Leinster dominate first halfImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Prendergast scored 14 point on his return to the Leinster line-upDespite making 12 changes from last week's Champions Cup quarter-final win over Sale, Leinster dominated the first half, refusing to allow their hosts attacking momentum as they built a comfortable lead.Early injuries to Angus Bell and James Hume set the tone for Ulster in the first half before Culhane crossed to cap a sustained spell of Leinster pressure. Prendergast converted and then stretched the away side's lead with a penalty.Ulster were unable to capitalise on the few opportunities they created in the...