Ulster, who extended their winless run away at Leinster to over years, fielded an under-strength team with internationals Paddy Wallace, Tom Court and Stephen Ferris all missing.

Shaun Berne and Niall O’Connor exchanges penalties before Leinster sealed the game as Kearney and Heaslip both touched down.

"Although we got the win, to be honest the boys aren't that happy with how we played,” said Kearney. “We gave the ball away too cheaply and we didn't respect the ball enough in possession.

"Ulster stopped us playing, and their line speed was very good. We're right where we want to be in terms of a top four place, but we also have a lot of work to do in Europe, so we won't be letting up.

"We felt that we probably let ourselves down but it was important to get a win ahead of another massive game next weekend in Galway."

Meanwhile, a last-minute try by Jean de Villiers secured a bonus point win for Munster over Connacht in a 35-3 Magners League win.