Russell grabs three as Byrne runs the show

Leinster 40 Glasgow 5

ROB RUSSELL ran in a hattrick of tries as URC leaders Leinster outgunned Glasgow Warriors at the RDS.

A brace from winger Russell, adding to Dave Kearney’s opening try, had the hosts leading 21-0 at half-time. Ross Byrne, Ireland’s late goal-kicking hero against Australia, landed three conversions in an assured overall display from out-half.

Glasgow, who had nine players back from Scotland camp, opened their account with 30 minutes remaining through Argentinian international Sebastian Cancelliere.

However, Leinster sub Michael Milne bagged a 55th-minute bonus-point try, and their eighth straight win was completed by late efforts from Russell and replacement John McKee.

Leo Cullen’s men opened the scoring with Jamie Osborne’s bouncing pass putting Kearney over in the seventh minute.

Byrne converted from near the left touchline. A sublime piece of skill from Charlie Ngatai sent Russell over five minutes later, with Byrne making it 14-0. Cullen’s side conjured a second score for Russell. Byrne nailed another difficult kick from out wide.

An eye-catching Oli Kebble break sparked the best out of Glasgow early in the second half. Cancelliere did register their first points in the 48th minute, on the back of an Alex Samuel surge through the middle, but

Glasgow’s challenge gradually petered out.

From a quick tap, the returning Kelleher supported Milne as he piled over the line for Byrne to convert. Some excellent footwork from replacement Chris

Cosgrave teed up Russell’s third try in the 71st minute.

A sixth try followed, McKee latching onto a breaking ball. Byrne’s younger brother Harry converted.