Four first half tries laid the foundations for Leinster’s bonus point win over Gloucester at Kingsholm Stadium in Pool A of the Champions Cup. At times Gloucester were outplayed and outfought by last year’s beaten finalists as they maintained their unbeaten start to the season.

Gloucester couldn’t compete with the might of Leinster who added three more tries in the second half. They were excellent throughout and were able to introduce quality from the bench too.

Just four minutes had elapsed on the clock when Jordan Larmour went over for their first try after Ross Byrne opted to go for the corner after Leinster had been awarded a penalty. 

In the 11th minute Gloucester’s Sebl Atkinson was sin binned for offside and one minute later Michael Ala’alatoa went over for the province’s second try.

Andrew Porter was sin binned in the 25th minute for collapsing Gloucester’s maul and the home side were awarded with a penalty try. They failed to build on that score despite having opportunities.

Leinster’s response was a third try from the very impressive Jamie Osbourne. It helped restore their two try advantage. Right before half-time Leinster secured a bonus point when the colossal Caelan Doris went over for their fourth try and Byrne kicked over his fourth conversion to leave Leo Cullen’s side 7-28 ahead going in at the break.

A beautiful tip from Byrne saw Hugo Keenan race through to mark his 50th appearance with a fine try in the 47th minute. 

Cian Healy came on for his 100th European cap in the 51st minute as Cullen rang the changes. Just like the first half Gloucester’s maul was brought down with Doris receiving a yellow card and the home side had their second penalty try.

But once again despite being down to 14 players Leinster grabbed another try; Josh Van Der Flier going over. Harry Byrne with the conversion. 

Gloucester finished the game with 14 players after Santiago Carreras was sin binned in the 77th minute. Substitute Ronan Kelleher sealed a fine win with a try at the end for Leinster.