Andrew Porter received an unexpected moment from Clermont supporters after a dominant scrummaging performance helped Leinster secure a huge Champions Cup victory on Saturday.

The Ireland loosehead was central to Leinster’s 48–23 bonus-point win at Stade Marcel-Michelin, putting the hosts under sustained pressure alongside Dan Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong.

Clermont’s 19-year-old tighthead Nohem Ez Zahouany faced a particularly difficult assignment against Porter, whose work at the set-piece gave Leinster a platform throughout the contest.

The visitors laid down an early marker by winning a penalty at the first scrum. Further pressure close to Clermont’s line brought another scrum penalty midway through the opening half, although Leinster failed to turn that opportunity into points.

Clermont held a narrow 16–15 half-time lead, but Leinster’s dominance up front became increasingly decisive after the break.

Their scrum eventually produced a penalty try, with Ez Zahouany also shown a yellow card as the home pack struggled to contain the visitors. Porter’s contribution helped Leinster turn a tight contest into a comprehensive victory.

Midi Olympique highlighted Porter as one of Leinster’s standout performers, pointing to his dominance in almost every scrum during his time on the field.

And while his performance had made life difficult for the home side, Clermont’s supporters showed their appreciation when he was replaced by Alex Usanov around the 71-minute mark.

The loosehead received a standing ovation from the home crowd before returning the gesture by applauding the supporters himself — a moment of mutual respect between two familiar European rivals.

Leinster finished with seven tries, including a double from Sheehan, as well as scores from Furlong, Sam Prendergast, Jack Conan and Tommy O’Brien, alongside the penalty try.

They now turn their attention to Saturday’s URC meeting with Munster at the Aviva Stadium.