LANSDOWNE started the new AIL season brightly with a hard-fought win over Clontarf at the RDS yesterday.

Despite the visitors getting the only try of the match, Lansdowne proved that it was possible to win by virtue of a strong kicking game.

Three minutes after the start Clontarf 's centre Daragh O'Shea landed a penalty from 30 yards out.

Two minutes later Lansdowne's left winger Robbie Dolan was on the mark for the first of his three penalties.

Then on 29 minutes Lansdowne right winger Neil Walsh landed a crisp drop goal from 25 metres out, putting the home side into the lead. Then just before the break Clontarf got the only try of the game when loose head prop Cian Healy was shoved over by his pack from close in.

O'Shea conversion left the visitors 10-6 ahead at half time and looking good for the second half.

Three minutes after the re-start, Dolan landed his second penalty leaving the home side trailing by a point.

Then six minutes from full time Dolan posted his third penalty to put Lansdowne two points ahead.

Three minutes into extra time Lansdowne sealed victory with a drop goal from replacement outhalf Luke Cozens to put the icing on the cake.