Rob Kearney offers many things to a team, but a prolific scoring record is certainly not one of them. While his adeptness under a high ball and ability to cover the backfield are invaluable, it would be nice if he could add more tries to his game.
Entering today's Pro 14 clash against Glasgow Warriors, Kearney had not scored a try for the province since September 2016. That's 31 months if you're counting. His dry spell for Ireland goes back even further, having to go back to the 2015 World Cup for the last time he touched down at international level.
Rob Kearney has just scored his first try in 53 games for club and country.
His last Leinster try came against Glasgow in September 2016.
Last try for Ireland was against France at the 2015 World Cup.— Cian Tracey (@CianTracey1) April 13, 2019
He finally brought that streak to an end in the 35th minute of today's game, touching down to give Leinster a their opening try.
TRY!! @KearneyRob with the finish!#LEIvGLA #JoinTheRoar pic.twitter.com/u9X9KSLrZQ
— Leinster Rugby (@leinsterrugby) April 13, 2019
As is often the case when long streaks such as this one are brought to an end, Kearney would not have to wait too long for another try. He showed fantastic strength to get this one over the line, grabbing his second of the game.
52: TRY @leinsterrugby!
32 phases later and Rob Kearney strikes for his second try of the afternoon. #GuinnessPRO14 pic.twitter.com/MJaoHIabib— eir Sport (@eirSport) April 13, 2019
Rob Kearney wasn't the only player to grab a break in the game, with brother Dave also coming up with a pair of tries. Coincidentally, Glasgow brothers Matt and Zander Fagerson also both scored tries in today's contest.
Ultimately Kearney's return to soaring form would not be enough for Leinster, who fell to a 39-24 after a strong finish from the Scottish side in the closing quarter.
While this one may have ended in defeat, Irish rugby fans will no doubt be encouraged by the full back's showing here. Despite his advancing years, Kearney remains the clearcut first choice under Joe Schmidt, with a major drop in the team's performance often accompanying his absence from the team.
With the World Cup quickly approaching, we will take any bit of good news we can get.
