IT’S AL’ FALLING INTO PLACE FOR BLUES

SAMOAN international Michael Ala’Alatoa believes there is room for improvement in his new side despite Leinster’s 31-3 win over the Bulls.

The 30-year-old made a winning debut as the PRO14 champions put the Currie Cup holders to the sword with a bonus point win in the United Rugby Championship.

He slotted into Leinster’s front row at tighthead as Andrew Porter switched to the other side for the first time in five years.

Ala’Alatoa was thrilled to get the first competitive game under his belt with a win after moving from the Crusasders in New Zealand.

“I feel relieved. It’s been an awesome few weeks transitioning from New Zealand and a good couple of weeks under the belt.

“So, it’s good to get a competitive game in the Aviva, it was a pretty fast game.

Style

“I think we had a good plan going into the week, to play an attacking style of rugby and I think we did that.”

Leinster were ruthless from the outset and Johnny Sexton (inset), looking sharp after a full pre-season after his Lions snub, settled them with a penalty.

Man of the match Josh van der Flier finished a fine move by driving through full-back David Kriel for the opening try.

A chip from Sexton inside the 22 was collected by Garry Ringrose to send Porter over.

The Bulls enjoyed a good spell after that but a poor lineout display saw them trail 17-3 at the break.

Leinster extended their lead after 57 minutes when replacement hooker James Tracy got over after a penalty to the left corner.

They secured the bonus point 10 minutes from time when a flowing move started by a break by Ciaran Frawley finished with Garry Ringrose putting Ross Byrne over in the left corner.

Scorers for Leinster: Tries: J van der Flier, A Porter, J Tracy, R Byrne 70. Cons: J Sexton (3), R Byrne . Pen: Sexton

Vodacom Bulls: Pen: J Goosen.