Flanker eager to follow up memorable Champions Cup semi-final win by getting Leinster’s URC title bid back on trackRyan Baird leads the charge for Leinster during the thrilling 20-17 victory over Northampton Saints at Croke Park. Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Imagessemi-final win over the Northampton Saints for some new homework in preparation for the visit of the Ospreys to the RDS on Saturday night.
When asked about Saints fullback George Furbank’s assertion that Leinster had shut up shop, Baird explained: “Of course you’d love to finish off the game, score two tries and put them away, but saying we tapped out would be disrespectful to Northampton and the incredible attacking side they are. There was one final reference to the European match. Asked about the mental fortitude Leinster displayed in coming up with that crucial turnover to close out the Northampton game, Baird offered an analogy.
Northhampton Saints' Alex Mitchell and Leinster's Joe McCarthy during the Champions Cup semi-final at Croke Park. 'He is so unique in how he plays. I think he’s absolutely phenomenal.' says Baird of his young team-mate. Photograph: James Scrombie/Inpho “There is an incredible individuality about his play in terms of how he puts his statement on to the pitch. He is so unique in how he plays. I think he’s absolutely phenomenal.”