Jonathan Sexton sends Leinster into Pro12 final

Omnisports

May 20, 2016 8:29 AM

Pro12: Ireland international Jonathan Sexton kicks 15 points Leinster beat Ulster for a place in the final.

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Jonathan Sexton kicked 15 points as Leinster booked their place in the Pro12 final with a 30-18 victory over Ulster at the RDS Arena.

Finishing top of the table in the regular season earned Leinster home advantage for the semi-final and they ensured Ulster's poor form at their ground continued – the Northern Irish province have now won just once in their last 13 visits.

Isa Nacewa touched down the opening score inside four minutes, with the boot of Sexton quickly opening up a 13-0 lead for the hosts.

Ulster gradually gained a foothold in the game and, after a pair of penalties from Paddy Jackson, their pressure paid off with Craig Gilroy crossing in the corner shortly before half-time.

Jackson's missed conversion proved costly when Jamie Heaslip powered over the line before Sean Cronin touched down.

Gilroy's second try set up a tense final 10 minutes, but Ulster – who lost in last year's semi to eventual winners Glasgow Warriors – were unable to close the gap further as Leinster marched into the final.

The Warriors meet Connacht in the second semi on Saturday.

Omnisports

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