**The Guinness PRO14 has started 2021 with a bang following a number of thrilling derbies during the last three rounds.** While there are two more fixtures from round nine to be played, the bragging rights have been settled regarding some teams while for others it was a case of honours even. Nevertheless, the table has started to shape up after a busy festive period where shock results were recorded. **Leinster still top dogs after Celtic warfare** Leinster remain on course to defend their PRO14 crown but they were given a rude awakening at the start of the year by Connacht, who recorded an excellent away win by an 11-point margin on January 2. Jack Carty was the star for the visitors with 25 of their 35 points to hand the hosts a first league loss since April 27, 2019. To their credit, Leo Cullen's men bounced back a week later to triumph 24-12 over title rivals Ulster. While Ulster lead Conference A, they have played twice more than their rivals Leinster and a first PRO14 defeat of the season ended their momentum which had been boosted by wins over Connacht and Munster in rounds nine and 10 respectively. Munster had got back on the horse with a hard-fought 16-10 success at Connacht on January 9 to remain at the summit of Conference B and they will aim to build on that when the champions visit Thomond Park for their rearranged round nine encounter on January 23.
