5 November 2011
Tom Homer was the hero of the day and converted London Irish’s late try to end the game with a draw. He kicked fantastically throughout and Irish defied all odds as they trailed by 24 points to 7 on the hour mark. Leicester looked stronger than their opponents throughout the first half but couldn’t sustain dominance late on.
A penalty was the only reward for a string of powerful attacks early on from the home side but it wasn’t long before they were on the back foot. Hape went over for London Irish and Homer converted. Irish captain, Dan Bowden was sinbinned early on in the game for taking out a man without the ball. He seemed confused by the Dave Pearson’s decision but London Irish continued with 14 men.
With Leicester looking to capitalize on having an extra man they dominated in the scrum and were awarded a penalty try. Flood converted and the home side led 10-7.
The 2nd half opened with two penalties from Leicester and a further three points came on the 50 minute mark meaning they led by 19 points to 7. What looked to be the winning try came soon after as Horacio Agulla went over for Leicester. Flood couldn’t convert but the home side led by 17 points.
However, Irish would comeback in spectacular style. Adam Thompstone began the comeback with a try on the 65 minute mark. And a try in the 77th minute from Garvey was confirmed by the TMO and Irish were two points away from a draw. Homer kept his nerve and converted. On top of an earlier penalty it meant the scores were tied at 24-24 to end the game.
HT Score: 10-7 to Leicester.
FT Score: 24-24
