Sam Prendergast verdict in as Leinster boss lauds ‘excellent’ fly-half and reveals ‘frustration’ within camp
Leinster boss gives verdict on Sam Prendergast's performance as squad depth provides 'frustration' within camp
Leinster boss Leo Cullen has praised Sam Prendergast for his player-of-the-match performance on Friday evening, when they beat Ulster 21-29.
Prendergast was given the hot seat at 10, after recently losing his place in both the Ireland and Leinster matchday squads. But on Friday, he responded with a comprehensive performance, showing fantastic control and game management.
Leinster head coach Cullen spoke to Premier Sports following the match, saying: “The guys prepared well all week and were excited to get stuck in here today.
“I thought Sam (Prendergast) was excellent and we played a good brand of rugby to put Ulster on the back foot.
“It was a good away performance and win.”
Back in the driving seat
Prendergast has seen his spot taken by the immensely talented Harry Byrne in recent weeks, but with Byrne being rested for this United Rugby Championship clash, the ousted man was back in the driving seat.
“He just kept his head down working away,” said Cullen, reflecting on Prendergast’s recent exclusion.
“It’s frustrating for a number of guys in terms of selection at the moment because it’s a competitive group and that’s what we want.
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“Sam is a good example of that. He’s just had to be patient, and I thought he was great there today. He managed the game, managed the territory battle particularly well, and obviously comes up with some big moments himself individually, so it was a great overall performance.”
Leinster took an early lead over their hosts, rising to a 29-point gap with Prendergast converting his own try as the clock turned 50.
A Max Deegan red card turned the tide in the latter stages, however, as the host scored three tries in just ten minutes to make the scoreline much more respectable. Although, Ulster failed to close the gap far enough to secure a bonus point.