UNDER THE LEINS

Blues stars know they’re being closely scrutinised

LEINSTER players have been shown examples of ‘unacceptable’ Covid breaches from other sports as a reminder to stick to the rules.

Blues coach Robin Mcbryde (left) is well aware that the players are in a privileged position of being able to play on despite the lockdown and says they have all been reminded of their responsibilities.

“They are well enough informed and sometimes incidents from other sports have been shown to the players as being unacceptable,” stated Mcbryde.

“I think we’ve got to value the opportunity and responsibility we’ve been given.

“Responsibility is 100 per cent the right word. We have got a responsibility because we’re very fortunate.

“When you’re given any sort of honour, you’ve got a duty to live up to that and at the moment we have the honour of carrying on playing.

“With that comes a duty that we’ve got to behave accordingly.”

Leinster had two positive Covid cases in their squad just after Christmas.

Before it, on Christmas Eve, their PRO14 clash with Munster was postponed as the Blues had to be retested, with the game now being played this Saturday.

So the players understand the importance of sticking to their prescribed bubbles and Mcbryde says there is no issue with rugby playing on, despite the high infection numbers.

“I think it’s important to give the supporters something to look forward to in a week, without putting lives at risk,” he argued.

“Everyone understands the serious nature of what’s happening out there.

“But if we in any way, shape or form can give our supporters something to look forward to at the end of the week – or rugby supporters in general – I think we should do so.

“And I think this week in particular is definitely going to be one to watch from an Irish perspective. It doesn’t matter if you support either Munster or Leinster, it doesn’t make a difference, I think it’s going to be a great game.”

ZFORMER Munster out-half Ian Keatley has joined Glasgow until the end of the season.

PLAY YOUR PART The likes of Leinster skipper Johnny Sexton will know he must lead by example