Fans hail ‘monstrous’ James Lowe as Leinster dethrone Ronan O’Gara’s La Rochelle to set up Croke Park clash

LEINSTER fans hailed James Lowe as he and his team-mates put in a sizzling display against La Rochelle.

The Ireland and Leinster winger was magic for the Blues in the win during a huge effort to dethrone the back-to-back Champions Cup winners.

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Leo Cullen's side produced some stunning rugby throughout the contest with Lowe and Gibson-Park teaming up for a sensational score in the opening half.

The four-time European Champions will be delighted with yet back-to-back wins over O'Gara's La Rochelle side.

The French side won the 2021 semi-final and the 2022 and 2023 finals against Leo Cullen’s side who finally came out on top in a pool game last December.

And Cullen reached for that formula again with Will Connors – who won the last of his nine Ireland caps three years ago – preferred to 2022 World Rugby Player of the Year Josh van der Flier.

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But Gibson-Park and James Lowe were the stand out players for Leinster, who showed incredible defensive grit - something new coach Jacques Nienaber will be delighted with.

Ross Byrne was also sensational for Leinster as he controlled the game from out-half in both attack in defence.

But fans were in awe of the New-Zealand born pair, especially as they linked up for Leinster's second try.

One said: "James Lowe gets all manner of pot shots but he's been monstrous in this first half."

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Another posted: "James Lowe and JGP have been absolutely lights out good."

A third penned: "They can keep Dupont, I can't imagine what havoc James Lowe would cause in a sevens side.

"He's the best in the world. I have no love for him at all, but credit.

While one commented: "In the immortal words of a small child at a rugby match, 'Just give it to James Lowe and he’ll score every time.”

Lowe bagged two tries, and set up Gibson Park during the 40-13 win in front of a packed Aviva Stadium crowd.

The Blue bagged five tries to La Rochelle's one as Ross Byrne was named as Man of the Match for his outstanding contribution at number ten.

Leinster now play the winners of the Bulls and Northampton at Croke Park in the semi-final.