Shane Horgan scored the only try of an entertaining game as Leinster began their European campaign by beating last season's runners-up. An eventful first half ended 6-6 - all the scores coming from penalties - before Felipe Contepomi gave the Irish an early second-half lead by converting two penalties in quick succession. Horgan then crossed the line for his try before Andy Goode narrowed the gap slightly with a penalty that Contepomi then cancelled out.

Leicester were the more powerful side but Leinster's slicker handling and running game proved the more important difference. Though the English enjoyed much of the possession, they failed to stretch their hosts, instead attempting to barge their way through them. The Irish defended stoutly, and showed their superior cutting edge with several searing breaks.

Girvan Dempsey initiated one counter-attack from deep that would have paid dividends had it not been for a high tackle from Seru Rabeni. With Leinster 12-6 in front, Contepomi, who'd scored all Leinster's points, embarked on a thrilling run in midfield before offloading to Brian O'Driscoll, who then fed his fellow centre Gordon D'Arcy. D'Arcy fed Horgan just outside the 22, and the giant winger finished powerfully. Contemponi converted.

Leicester attempted to maul their way back into contention but Leinster defended heroically to restrict the visitors to just one more penalty score. Geordan Murphy intercepted in the dying seconds and set off towards the Leinster line from inside his own 22, but again the Irish recovered to deny the visitors.