Late surge from Irish

LONDON IRISH booked a home tie against West Hartleypool in the Pilkington Cup quarter finals on February 24th after sweeping aside Leeds with a burst of 16 points in the last 12 minutes at Kirkstall on Saturday.

When a penalty goal by former Wales outside half Colin Stephens levelled the scores at 13-13 in the 63rd minute, it seemed Leeds might be poised for a shock win.

But then Richard McCartney, their line out specialist, was sent of for allegedly kicking an opponent, and from then on their depleted side caved in amid London Irish's late onslaught.

Two penalty goals by winger Michael Corcoran opened up a six point gap for Irish, and then two tries in the last four minutes by centres Rob Henderson and Paul Flood carried the visitors to an emphatic if flattering success.

Irish looked to be in control at half time when they led 10-0, following a try by scrumhalf Tim Ewington which Corcoran converted after having earlier kicked a penalty goal.

But Leeds dragged themselves back into the game with a 47th minute try by centre Wayne Hartley, Stephens adding the conversion and then kicking two penalty goals.

Irish, though, had the final say, with Henderson, Ewington, and forwards Rob Kellam, David Peters and Barry Walsh their outstanding figures.