Jordie Barrett Stars in Dream Start with Leinster

All Black Jordie Barrett wasted no time making an impression with Leinster and helping it to a 35-12 away win over Bristol in the European Champions Cup at the weekend.

Barrett joined the midfield from the bench at halftime and, between the 52nd and 58th minutes, played a key role in three tries.

Replacing Irish international Robbie Henshaw, Barrett made his mark with a thumping tackle.

But then in the 52nd minute, standing at first receiver at a scrum, he took a pass from fellow Kiwi halfback Jamison Gibson-Park and fed first five-eighths Sam Prendergast. He raced through a gap, threw a dummy and cut back to the left to score.

Then, Barrett scored when, from a recycle, he cut back against the grain and was untouched as he crossed the line.

Leinster unleashed a counter-attack from the Bristol restart that saw South African lock RG Snyman running in space with only the Bristol fullback in front of him. Prendergast got up in support and out-marshalled the defenders to score his second.

"Tonight was a great test. I love to see a team that plays with no fear.

"It was quite nice, just getting a bit of a feel for the match. I've only been here 10 days. Robbie Henshaw and Garry Ringrose have been awesome this week and made my job a lot easier.

"I was aware of Leinster's history in this competition and their reputation in the northern hemisphere and, at the age I am, I wanted to come here and test myself in championship games."

Barrett said he is enjoying his time in Dublin, and his body has been in good condition since leaving the All Blacks after their game in Italy.

"I was champing at the bit for the opportunity at Leinster and I couldn't wait to get to Dublin, get around some great coaches and some great players. I have enjoyed it so far."

Leinster coach Leo Cullen said, "It was great that Jordie got 40 minutes. It has taken a lot of work in terms of getting him here, and hopefully, he will play a big part throughout the season. He is a quality person and a quality player."

Local rugby writer Murray Kinsella told The 42 that Barrett seemed to be a level up on those players around him.

"It was kind of eye-opening in that regard. Despite rumours of their demise, the Kiwis are still incredibly skilled. There probably wasn't a minute in his life where Barrett didn't have some sort of ball, usually a rugby ball, in his hands.

"He's also got a great kicking game which we didn't really get to see, but we will over the coming months. He sees different things and feeds them in. He's a great communicator by all accounts and that will be massive for an out-half, like Prendergast, who is still learning his trade."    

        

Read Source