United Rugby Championship team of the week round 8: Leinster earn their spots

The Christmas interprovincial derbies took centre stage in round eight of the BKT United Rugby Championship.

Ulster edged out Connacht in Belfast 20-19, while Leinster returned from Munster with the win after a hard-fought 9-3 victory.

Here's our team of the week.

15. Simon Zebo (Munster)

Another fine outing on return from injury. Made 49 metres with ball in hand, beat three defenders and threw two offloads. Made a try-saving tackle on Luke McGrath. Name-checked by Bernard Jackman in analysis as an outside shot for Ireland.

14. Shayne Bolton (Connacht)

The winger beat five defenders and bagged himself a try, coming off his wing and taking a brilliant line that caused confusion in the Ulster defence. Unlucky not to score at the end of Mack Hansen's kick in the first half.

13. Bundee Aki (Connacht)

Another busy shift by the inside centre who takes the outside berth on the team. Ran straight and hard all night and took his try in typical fashion, using his strength to barge over.

12. Alex Nankivell (Munster)

The New Zealander put in what’s becoming a trademark showing. Makes hard yards after contact and protects the ball well. A real nightmare to tackle. Won a turnover penalty. Possibly an injury concern for New Year’s Day against Connacht.

11. Jordan Larmour (Leinster)

One of Leinster’s most consistent players. Made a series of evasive runs, always on the look-out for a gap. Beat five defenders and had a couple of offloads and gets his place on this week’s side. Jacob Stockdale impressed for Ulster.

10. Harry Byrne (Leinster)

Harry Byrne seals a big win for Leinster in difficult conditions at Thomond Park