Late Byrne penalty gives Leinster dramatic 25-24 win over La Rochelle

James Cox

Harry Byrne kicked a last gasp penalty as Leinster beat La Rochelle 25-24 in the Investec Champions Cup this evening.

The Blues had led 12-7 at the break but needed to come from behind to win at the Aviva Stadium.

JJ Kenny scored two tries on his European debut while Josh van der Flier and Robbie Henshaw also crossed over.

Leinster’s Josh van der Flier celebrates after scoring his team's third try with Jack Conan. Photo: Nick Elliott/Inpho

Leinster took an early 12-0 lead, but struggled with discipline as Ronan O'Gara's side clawed their way back into the game.

Indeed, the French side led 24-22 going into the dying moments.

Leinster’s Harry Byrne kicks the winning penalty. Photo: Nick Elliott/Inpho

However, Byrne stepped up to convert the penalty with the pressure on.

Leinster have progressed to the knockout stages with three wins from three and 14 points in the group stage.