Leinster’s Fringe Players Encouraged to Seize Opportunity in Upcoming Zebre Clash
Leinster’s upcoming clash against Zebre Parma in the United Rugby Championship (URC) is set for Saturday at 5:30 PM. With 22 players away on international duty, this match presents a unique opportunity for those selected to shine.
Opportunity for Leinster’s Fringe Players
Leinster assistant coach Robin McBryde emphasized the importance of capitalizing on available opportunities. The roster features an experimental lineup, with just five players from the matchday squad having participated in last week’s defeat to Munster.
Key Players for Leinster
- Captain: Luke McGrath, making his 238th appearance
- Notable players: Harry Byrne, Max Deegan, and Scott Penny
- Debutants: Hugo McLaughlin, Jerry Cahir, Bobby Sheehan, Alex Usanov, Caspar Gabriel
McBryde noted that players are eager to prove themselves. He stated, “Opportunities are few and far between. When they arise, you’ve got to grab them.”
Leinster’s Current Standing
Leinster currently sits 12th in the URC standings, having suffered three losses in their first four matches. This places them three points and four places behind Zebre, who have recorded two wins from their four games this season.
Zebre’s Performance
Zebre has struggled in their only away match this season, falling 24-0 to the Ospreys on October 11. Despite this, McBryde anticipates a competitive challenge from the Italian side, acknowledging their quality and resilience.
Lineup Details
Leinster Starting XV
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Hugo McLaughlin | Fullback |
| James Kenny | Wing |
| Harry Cooney | Center |
| Charlie Tector | Center |
| Aaron Osborne | Wing |
| Harry Byrne | Scrum-half |
| Luke McGrath | Scrum-half (Captain) |
| Jerry Cahir | Lock |
| Josh McKee | Lock |
| Reda Slimani | Prop |
| Ben Deeny | Flanker |
| David Mangan | Flanker |
| Max Deegan | Number 8 |
| Scott Penny | Flanker |
| Jack Culhane | Prop |
Leinster’s reserve players include Bobby Sheehan, Alex Usanov, RG Snyman, and others.
Zebre Starting XV
| Player | Position |
|---|---|
| Luigi Pani | Fullback |
| Marco Belloni | Wing |
| Giovanni Bertaccini | Center |
| Matteo Zanon | Center |
| Alejandro Einstein Batista | Wing |
| Guglielmo Da Re | Scrum-half |
| Tomaso Dominguez | Scrum-half |
| Mattia Hasa | Lock |
| Giorgio Quattrini | Lock |
| Matteo Nocera | Prop |
| Fernando Carrera | Flanker |
| Lubomir Krumov | Flanker |
| Giovanni Ferrari | Number 8 |
| Stefano Locatelli | Flanker |
| David Odiase | Prop |
As Leinster prepares for this crucial match against Zebre, they hope to regain momentum in the competition and showcase the talent within their ranks.
