Superb Leinster beat Munster to retain Interpro crown

MUNSTER 7-27 LEINSTER

Leinster produced their best performance of the season to beat Munster and retain their Vodafone Women's Interprovincial Championship title.

Having lost to their rivals in the round-robin phase, Tania Rosser’s side played like they were desperate to make amends in the final in Belfast and took a fully deserved 27-7 victory, inspired by Aoife Wafer and player of the match Leah Tarpey.

Nikki Caughey (7) and Dannah O’Brien (5) chipped in with points off the tee and Munster’s only score came from a superb early Alana McInerney try, which was converted by Kate Flannery.

"Everything that we’ve been building over the last couple of months really stood to us," captain Molly Boyne told TG4.

"That last 30 minutes was everything we’ve been working hard for. The girls did a fantastic job, so we’re delighted."

Munster, who completed a clean sweep in the regular season, struggled at the set-piece and discipline became an issue as the game progressed.

It was Fiona Hayes’ side who had the better of the early exchanges, but hooker Beth Buttimer was held up over the line when they looked favourites to open the scoring.

But they were ahead on the 12th minute when McInerney scored another of her by now trademark tries.

Called up to the Ireland squad after scoring six tries during the round-robin phase, the Clare woman took possession on her wing on the halfway line.

She looked well covered but sped away from three defenders to score under the posts, with Kate Flannery adding the conversion.

However, that was as good as it was to get for the Reds.

It was turning into a fantastic physical battle when Leinster got back on level terms in the 24th minute.

A Caughey high ball fell into the path of Tarpey (below) on the halfway line and