Leinster 19-41 Bordeaux-Begles: ‘Mountain high’ as ​​Leinster’s wait continues

Leinster traveled to Bilbao with dreams of a fifth European star to add to their badge.

They hoped for redemption in the Basque city, the site of their last Champions Cup triumph in 2018, where they could erase the pain of their previous four defeats.

However, after being blown away by a superb Bordeaux performance in the first half, it will arguably hurt more than most.

Players and staff spoke of the “subtle margin” of previous final defeats, but the gulf could not be clearer on Saturday.

Tommy O’Brien crossed early but what followed was a display of power and poise, largely directed by Maxime Luku, Mathieu Jalibert and Louis Biel-Bear.

When Yoram Moefana ran under the posts after Harry Byrne’s pass was intercepted late in the first half, the game was over and Bordeaux led 35–7.

Leinster improved after the restart and Bordeaux were not as fluid, but the damage was done and the top 14 side ran out 41-19 winners.

“I think a bit of the theme of the season has found a way out,” captain Callan Dorries told BBC Radio 5Live.

“We were behind a few times and found composure and a way out, but despite a good effort in the second half it was too high to climb.”