Scarlets keep Pro14 play-off hopes alive with six-try win, Leinster impressively see off Ulster

The Scarlets face a nervous wait to see if they qualify for the Pro14 play-offs after an impressive 41-20 win over the much-changed Dragons on Saturday kept them in contention.

In a thrilling contest at Rodney Parade, Scarlets enjoyed a significant advantage in the scrums and had Dan Jones produce a fine display at fly-half, but it was not all plain-sailing for the visitors.

Scarlets held a slender four-point advantage at the break, with Samson Lee, Steff Evans and Jamie Davies touching down, while Jared Rosser and Taine Basham scored at the other end.

But Scarlets charged ahead after the interval, with Johnny McNicholl, Tom Rogers and Dane Blacker getting in on the act, while Jones’ kicks were on the money five times.

The six-try victory secured Scarlets a bonus point, which moves them second in Conference B, but they need Connacht to do them a favour against Munster on Sunday otherwise their season will be over.

Final Score | Sgôr Terfynol @dragonsrugby v @scarlets_rugby
What a game for Ken to remember! Dyna beth yw gêm rhif 250 i’w gofio i’r Sherif!#DRAvSCA pic.twitter.com/604ql9jl3h

— Scarlets Rugby (@scarlets_rugby) August 29, 2020

In Conference A, Leinster and Ulster have already made sure of their places in the play-offs, though the latter will be concerned about their chances in the next stage after disappointing in the two teams’ meeting on Saturday.

Leinster, who gave many fringe players the opportunity to impress, claimed a brilliant 28-10 win at the Aviva Stadium.

Ed Byrne’s early try sent them on their way, with the boot of Ross Byrne giving them a 13-0 lead at half-time.

Ulster were a little more threatening in the second 40, with Rob Herring getting them back in contention by finishing in the 53rd minute, but Scott Penny and Harry Byrne went over late on to wrap up a superb victory.

#GuinnessPro14

Full-time! | @UlsterRugby  10-28  @leinsterrugby

Another brilliant win here @AVIVAStadium for Leinster. All eyes are now on next week’s @PRO14Official semi-finals for these two provinces.

Follow live: https://t.co/bdd8s7KGZk#ULSvLEI #ReturnToRugby pic.twitter.com/T4U2ubWXXB

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) August 29, 2020

KEO.co.za News wire is powered by opta