Leicester v Ulster preview

Will the Ulstermen rue the missed bonus point in round 5? asks Kristian Ross…

The slow realisation the bonus point had slipped out our grasp and despite qualifying less than a day later, Ulster Rugby now have a huge ask on their hands, go to Welford Road on Saturday evening and beat the Leicester Tigers. The English champions have made their home a fortress since the inception of the Heineken Cup and no doubt it is a forbidding place, the biggest club rugby purpose built stadium in England, many have tried to knock the Tigers off their perch… many have failed.

What we know is this, Ulster despite missing out narrowly on the bonus point last week looked very good but only for certain periods, the two opening tries at Ravenhill effectively got everything thinking a potential onslaught was on the cards, but Montpellier were back in the game quickly and butchered chances led to just the four points being taken in Belfast.

Anscombe reiterated in his post match interview that the win was the main thing, but you could see the disappointment was creeping in. Incredibly yet again the Heineken Cup has warned us that even when you've won your opening five games, things are never guaranteed to go your way. Craig Gilroy has been passed fit following his clash with team-mate Andrew Trimble however Tommy Bowe won’t be back in time, a huge miss for any side.

The task is now simple, win and a home quarter final awaits as well as taking the plaudits and maybe finally getting Sky Sports to notice we are there. Lose and potentially face an opponent such as Toulouse in France and leave ourselves the ultimate of tasks. Can we do it… yes we can…. will it be easy….. It’s Ulster Rugby, drama is what we do.

SUFTUM.

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Tough assignments

Some big matches for the Ulstermen coming up, Kristian Ross looks ahead…

[Editor’s note - piece written prior to team announcement]

Happy New Year…… and we’re right into it.

Heineken Cup fever is infectious once again as Ulster Rugby continue their quest in another double header that starts at Ravenhill on Friday night. Montpellier are the team to beat and following the vanquishing of their opponents on home soil last year it’s fair to say that as a tricky a challenge as it may be, the Ulstermen are in a fine position to go out and do the business as Belfast sees it’s most famous ground grow bigger by the day.

Fine tuning the performances is what will be expected following a poor performance in the PRO12 against Zebre before being humbled down at the RDS by rivals Leinster. Having said that Ulster look to be back amongst it after a beating a competitive Munster side last week, albeit a shaky second half from the home side but nevertheless a good win to see Anscombe’s men get back on track.

Even with a win against Montpellier the entire operation is fraught with danger as Ulster will travel to Welford Road next weekend to face the Leicester Tigers. Richard Cockerill’s side have been a powerhouse in rugby for years and with a near invincible record the question must be asked can it be done, can victory be achieved? The Ulstermen will be boosted by the return of hooker Rory Best following his lay off after the injury sustained in the Guinness Series against New Zealand. However the coaching staff will be hoping for an injury free match against Montpellier as the Leicester task could become a thousand times harder should any big names be unavailable.

All in all we’re finally at the stage of the season we’re things start to get interesting, despite the fact Ulster are unbeaten in the group after four games they still have massive work to do to try and achieve that home quarter final, something an Ulster team has never managed since they won the tournament in 1999. Once again the Heineken Cup throws up the old adage that no matter how well you play up until the last few rounds, you must deliver that consistency or face the dreaded prospect of a QF at a venue that may not only be daunting but with a record that may not hold you in good stead. But positivity is the way forward and a miracle in Leicestershire is possible next week… but the focus for now remains in Belfast, get the job done on Friday night and press on from there.

SUFTUM.

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Decisions, decisions

Mark Anscombe has some serious calls to make this week, writes Ryan Cullen

Rarely has a patchy home victory been more important. Ulster’s victory over Munster on Friday night was as important as any league win this season and gives the province some momentum leading into the most important fortnight of the season to date.

Undoubtedly there are some concerns over Ulster’s defensive frailties, particularly against the rolling maul. Montpellier and Leicester, renowned for their forward oriented play, cannot have failed to notice how easily Munster moved the Ulster forwards around and ultimately pulled themselves back into the game. Much work must be done on the training paddock this week.

That being said, it would be wrong to forget the sheer number of try scoring opportunities Ulster carved out against Munster. Although only coming away with two scores, a try scoring bonus point was not far from their grasp. Whilst this can be a recurring theme from Ulster’s league performances, they have shown both this and in previous seasons that the Heineken Cup focuses their minds like no other competition and one would hope being clinical in the opposition 22 will not be an issue against Montpellier this weekend and Leicester the next.

Team selection is certainly an area Mark Anscombe will need to think hard about over the next few days. Whilst having several international players coming back into the squad is a major boon for the Kiwi, their lack of match sharpness is also something he will need to consider. Whilst Chris Henry and Iain Henderson played well for their first game back on Friday night, they weren’t quite at the level we had seen prior to their injuries.

The rumoured return of Rory Best is also an interesting dilemma for Anscombe who needs to ensure Best gets enough game time to prime him for the trip to Welford Road the following week, yet without asking too much of him in his first week back in full contact. Rob Herring has generally been doing a fine job in place of Best too and would be unlucky to lose his place for the game against Montpellier at least.

With the likely fitness of Johann Muller and the return of Tommy Bowe not scheduled until further down the line, the team generally picks itself. The hooking decision aside, the backrow is probably the only area where there remains any uncertainty. 3 games in 3 weeks coming back from injury may be too much to ask of Iain Henderson and Chris Henry so Sean Doyle may come in for some unexpected game time.

Robbie Diack is probably the most improved Ulster performer so far this season so his inclusion in both games would certainly not be a surprise, although one would have to think the decision at 6 may be influenced by the potential return of Nick Williams. Following a cameo appearance off the bench on Friday night, most Ulster fans will be expecting the reigning Pro12 Player of the Season to slot back into the first choice number 8 role.

That would be somewhat harsh on Roger Wilson who has been a consistent performer throughout this season. As any regular readers of this piece will know I believe Wilson to be an underrated commodity to this Ulster side, but I would still be very surprised not to see Williams return to the first XV. As a result it’s likely the greater mobility of Robbie Diack may be seen as more useful than the strong ball carrying of Henderson for this Friday’s game. Swap this if Wilson gets the nod.

That leaves Henry or Doyle at 7. I’m sure all will agree that Henry is the first choice openside, but with the previously mentioned burnout concerns in mind, I wouldn’t be surprised if Henry was held back to the following week. Sean Doyle has shown himself to be an able deputy and certainly could do a decent enough job against Montpellier.

Whilst it would be foolish to look too far ahead, victory over Montpellier should be achieved comfortably enough on Friday night. As all Rugby fans know, French teams aren’t renowned for their love of travelling and a cold Friday night at Ravenhill doesn’t strike me as a welcome trip in early January. Rather, it is the following weekend’s game that will undoubtedly require the biggest effort and the one all Ulster fans are looking forward too.

Whilst we are still in the group stages of the Heineken Cup, effectively the knockout stages begin on Friday!

A word on Munster and Ian Keatley. Friday night was the first time I have seen Munster this season and two things stood out. Firstly, they seemed to lack to ball carrying intensity required to play the wide game they have been in transition to since Rob Penney took over. The phrase ‘earning the right to go wide’ is often overused in my eyes but I do think it applies to Munster currently. They played a lot of their game in front of the Ulster defensive line and struggled to make the line breaks required to generate space out wide.

Secondly, there certainly wasn’t too much wrong with the pressure they applied when keeping the ball tighter in the second half. Ulster can reasonably consider themselves one of the better packs in Europe and yet they couldn’t contain the Munster driving maul. I appreciate skills levels aren’t improved and excitement isn’t generated by playing tight, forward based rugby, but for Munster it might just bring the best results.

Finally a word in defence of Ian Keatley. Friday night was undoubtedly not the young fly half’s finest hour but plenty of more experienced players have struggled on cold windy nights at Ravenhill. Conditions for place kicking were particularly difficult in the first half for Keatley, when he struggled most, and he regained his composure to land several good kicks in the second half. Perfection cannot be attained in 6 months and perhaps a little more perspective is required from some, and I emphasise some, Munster fans.

My name is Ryan Cullen and I am a 25 year old Ulster season ticket holder. I was introduced to the game around 15 years ago and have loved it ever since. I have an interest in pretty much all sports though so don’t be surprised to see a few football (Liverpool), Golfing and Racing interests (to name but a few) thrown in from time to time.

Ulster back on track

Mark Anscombe’s men have recovered well from defeat to the Scarlets, writes Krisitan Ross…

A flurry of activity has cascaded over Ravenhill in the last three weeks. The ground’s new stand starting to take shape, the return of Paddy Wallace, the injury that will keep Stuart Olding out for the season, Tommy Bowe sustaining yet another knock as well as Rory Best being unavailable until 2014, but there was something positive to take out of it all… three Ulster Rugby wins.

Ulster bounced back from their Scarlets defeat on November 22nd with an assured performance against Edinburgh Rugby in Belfast. In a game that Ulster on paper were unlikely to lose, the nine county province swept aside the Scottish outfit in superb fashion, with two tries from Craig Gilroy on his return in a white jersey, one from Paul Marshall following some deft footwork, another from captain for the evening Robbie Diack and one from youngster James McKinney. And it was McKinney who showed exceptional talent on the night producing a faultless kicking performance that wouldn't have looked out of place in a All Blacks side. Darren Cave also excelled and once again raised a hand as to why he would be a great contender for thirteen come Ireland’s Six Nations campaign.

Cave led the way the following week as he scored the only try of the game in Parma as Ulster travelled to take on Zebre in Italy. People often write Zebre off, but a few pundits and I myself know they can cause problems at home and they do produce a stellar performance at times, physical, aggressive and hungry at the break down. The bottom line was their undisciplined second half performance led to a few easy penalties that Paddy Jackson was able to knock over without any real bother and Ulster claimed a 19-12 victory. However head coach Mark Anscome wasn't happy with the performance, and you could see why, last year’s PRO12 finalists looked very lacklusture in the opening twenty minutes before finally kicking into gear.

The Italian theme continued and this weekend we were treated to the second match of the season against Benetton Treviso at Ravenhill. Treviso have became a bogey team for Ulster over the last few years, they were the first team ever to win on Irish soil and last year claimed a draw at Ravenhill in the dying seconds. But the hoodoo seems to have been lifted, after a thumping win over them September, Ulster carried on their winning run with a huge victory. On a weekend that saw all four provinces when in the Heineken Cup, fans would see their Ulster team produce an incredibly clinical attacking display and a highly astute defensive performance that saw seven tries grounded, two from Luke Marshall, one from Paddy Jackson who converted five of the seven scores, another from departing prop John Afoa, a good score for Sean Doyle who clearly enjoyed the entire match judging by some very interesting facial expressions and to add to the tally Andrew Trimble got over with a superb effort to take his tries in the Heineken Cup to an impressive twenty two.

Following the Italian Job Part Three, Ulster Rugby have to look forward to part four and five in the next few weeks with the return fixture against Treviso in the Heineken Cup coming up this weekend and Zebre Rugby attempting revenge for the defeat earlier this month when they return to Ravenhill just before Christmas.

They’ve been poor opponents, but Anscombe wont be too fussed, the job has been done, the festive period is here. Santa wears red and white… maybe he’s an Ulster fan?

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Lessons learned by Ulster

As the domestic season takes a back seat Kristian Ross looks back over a rollercoaster 3 weeks for Ulster

Three weeks. Ulster Rugby have sent out a statement after three matches, the first in the Heineken Cup, the second and third in the RaboPRO12. What exactly have we learned? The last twenty one or so days have been highlighted in the media for so many reasons. Here is to explain why....

19TH OCTOBER vs MONTPELLIER HERAULT :

A win over Leicester Tigers the week previous had given Ulster the ultimate platform to build on their Heineken Cup campaign and take the initiative once again in Europe.

The English champions had fallen after some incredible hard work and effort, but it was going to be just as tough, if not tougher as the Ulstermen travelled to France. Having only having ever won one game on French soil against Castres Olympique last year, Ulster knew that this win would not only skyrocket their chances of finishing top of the group, but once again would pose a significant message to every other team on the continent that the team from Belfast are no pushover and that they can compete with the European heavyweights.

Needless to say, Ulster produced one of their best ever performances as a professional rugby side to come away with a very comfortable 25-8 win. Andrew Trimble’s try started the visitors off after some lovely neat interchange passing between Darren Cave and Tommy Bowe. Yoan Audrin scored for the home side and once again Ulster were reminded of the harsh tempo of Heineken Cup rugby, but in the second half everything changed.

Montpellier started to become undisciplined to a point of desperation and it was giving away countless penalties that cost them. Step up Ruan Pienaar. Four brilliant penalties later and a Paddy Jackson afterthought in injury time and Ulster had swept aside Montpellier with consummate ease. It was a cracking result, going away from home against a partisan crowd, the Ulster fans who had made the journey were not disappointed. Their team had put on a tactical master class and came away with a massive win.

25TH OCTOBER - vs CARDIFF BLUES

Following the huge win over Montpellier, Ulster returned to domestic action in the week following, and back to Ravenhill against Cardiff Blues. It was hard to see which Cardiff Blues team would turn up on the night, would it be the team that was torn apart by the Exeter Chiefs a few weeks earlier, or would it be the team that had managed to beat the European champions the week before. Ulster had already put 80+ points up against their Welsh rivals in the previous two fixtures, it boded well that this match should be a potential tryfest..... and it was.

Paddy Jackson and Leigh Halfpenny traded tries before Robbie Diack got try number one after Ulster pressure but Jackson failed to get the conversion. Ulster were maintaining a high tempo and not long after got over the line as Dan Tuohy extended the advantage and it was starting to look ominous for the Blues. However the game was far from over, and good rallying from Cardiff saw them grab a try back, ironically through an Irishman and someone who has been tipped for potential Irish caps in the future, number eight Robin Copeland crashed over the line as Leigh Halfpenny missed the chance for the extras but nailed a penalty soon after as Cardiff went into the half time break with momentum swinging their way and too close for comfort for Ulster’s liking.

As the second half got underway the battle started again with yet another try, but for the majority of the fans at Ravenhill it was a try that Ulster wanted to see, as good work from Stuart Olding lead to Luke Marshall grounding the ball to give the men in white some breathing space and once more showcase their talents as the future of Irish Rugby. Ulster added a penalty through Paddy Jackson soon after, but Cardiff were like a dog with a bone and wouldn't let go and Richard Smith went over the whitewash to give Ulster more to think about.

But from then on it all started going the home side’s way, a monster kick by Pienaar gave Ulster a 27-18 lead (despite a Leigh Halfpenny penalty in response) and Andrew Trimble continued his impressive form by adding the bonus point for a commanding 32-21 lead. Pienaar missed with the resulting conversion and were all but home and dry, but Dan Tuohy wanted to make sure, and Ravenhill erupted for the fifth time of the night when he grabbed his second time just before the clock went red. Ruan added a difficult two pointer and Ulster had hammered Cardiff Blues with an attacking lesson of the highest quality.

2ND NOVEMBER - vs SCARLETS

Despite making it six wins in a row in all competitions with the win over Cardiff, Ulster went to the Scarlets hoping to make it a seventh, but from the first whistle it was clear it wasn't going to be their night.

A strongest line up possible that was fielded, but the lack of Ulster’s key men due to international duty for Ireland as well as a lacklustre performance in key areas of the field saw Ulster fail to muster any sort of real threat throughout the entire eighty minutes. Ruan Pienaar did put the visitors ahead but Steve Shingler levelled for the Scarlets via the boot in what was an incredibly windy night in Llanelli. From then on the Scarlets were camped in Ulster’s half for the rest of the first period and despite some wonderfully sustained defence, the Welsh region finally got their reward via a George Earle try from a rolling maul and a Aled Thomas penalty at the end of the first half gave the Scarlets a 11-3 lead. Ulster started to look slightly better in the second half, but only for small periods at a time.

Pienaar missed a penalty attempt but then followed up with a successful kick a few minutes later, but Ulster’s luck continued to worsen as David McIlwaine was sent to the bin for not releasing and another Thomas penalty made it 14-6. Ulster were desperately running out of time, another Pienaar penalty got them back within five points and when Ruan was offered a chance to make it 14-12 in front of the posts (albeit in very windy conditions) he incredibly misjudged his kick as once again Ulster were masters of their own downfall. To add salt into the proverbial wound, Roger Wilson became the second player into the bin after a tripping offence, and a final infringement by John Afoa saw Aled Thomas kick the Scarlets to a 17-9 victory on a night they could do no wrong, and unfortunately for the Ulstermen they could do no right.

***

First of all Ulster fans shouldn't be too worried about the Scarlets defeat. Anscombe had commented that the players had looked tired and key men missing didn't help that.

Yes, Ulster will have periods of time, ie the Six Nations and the current end of year internationals in which they will have to survive without their big names, however with the next match not until the 22nd November against Edinburgh, Ulster have plenty of time to recover, regroup and rally.

The Cardiff win last week reminded us of Ulster last season, and how they got five point wins when it mattered, at home, against weaker opposition, the perfect way to start playoff push and show statements of intent in the RaboPRO12. Albeit, Mark Anscombe did say that Ulster couldn't afford too many more defeats, it has to be noted, at some point Ulster are going to have to win one or two big matches, ie against say Leinster or Munster in order to re-cooperate some of the points they failed to gain at the start of the season.

But the Montpellier win outlined Ulster’s hunger to go out and perform in Europe, a launch a serious bid for their Heineken Cup chances. With glory in Europe not tasted since 99, and Leinster and Munster having won it five times between them in that period, Ulster will want to finally prove that they can do it, and what with it possibly being the last Heineken Cup in the current format, it would be an amazing way to do it.

So with the huge test matches for Ireland in the coming weeks, it’s time to turn our attention and Stand Up For The Ulstermen in Green. Hopefully they will fair as well as Ulster did against Montpellier and Cardiff and all players will return to their provinces injury free and busting to go again.

SUFTUM

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

The November Ulstermen

How many Ulstermen will make it into Joe Schmidt’s Autumn 23? asks Ryan Cullen…

After a shaky start which saw them lose both of their first two fixtures, Ulster has bounced back strongly, stringing together six straight wins ahead of this weekend’s difficult trip to Parc Y Scarlets.

Whilst the remaining squad will undoubtedly be focussing on the Scarlets, the rest of us are now starting to look forward to the several weeks that follow when we will see the first international action of the European season.

With the new Irish coaching team now firmly ensconced, the question on the lips of many Ulster fans is how many Ulstermen will make it into Joe Schmidt’s Autumn 23?

In the eyes of many Ulster fans Declan Kidney was a harsher judge of Ulster players than their Leinster and Munster counterparts throughout his reign. Whilst I believe this it was more his nature to resort to the tried and tested when times got tough rather than anything else, the belief that being an Ulster player was a disadvantage when it came to Irish selection was certainly a widely held one.

So ahead of this November’s Guinness Series I am going to take this opportunity to examine exactly what claims Ulster players have to make that matchday squad.

Front Row

Players selected: Rory Best, Tom Court, Declan Fitzpatrick

Starting with Best, injury aside he will be the starting hooker come the Australia & New Zealand games. Sean Cronin’s ability round the park has impressed so far this season but his basics are still not of the standard needed to be a first choice international. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Cronin start against Samoa, but would expect the Ulsterman to return for the major challenges towards the end of the series.

Mike Ross appears to have now regained full fitness and thus it would be a major shock to see anybody other than the Leinsterman starting against the Wallabies and ABs. Declan Fitzpatrick has played well so far this season, anchoring Ulster’s scrum in both their major victories against Leicester and Montpellier. Whilst it certainly wasn’t plain sailing in either of those games, Fitzpatrick showed an ability to adapt and overcome early issues and looks fitter than at any previous stage. He should fill a place on the bench this autumn with perhaps even a start against Samoa a reward for his early season form.

It’s rare I feel sorry for sportsmen but Tom Court is undoubtedly one who deserves a bit of sympathy. Since he was thrown to the wolves at tighthead against England a few years back, he has been typecast as just another powderpuff Irish prop. This combined with the fact he doesn’t possess the, exceptionally rare, open field prowess of Cian Healy has meant he is often overlooked.

Yet Court has been one of the lynchpin’s of Ulster’s rise to prominence over the past few years and certainly (to these eyes) is the standout replacement for Healy. When deployed as a loosehead he is the equal of any scrummager in the country. He carries well enough, defends well for a prop and is an excellent lineout lifter.

In short he is a very able deputy. We will have to wait and see if his excellent H Cup performances have been enough to force his way back into Schmidt’s thinking after he was left out of the first training squad of the Kiwi’s reign.

Second row:

Players Selected: Dan Tuohy

Ulster’s representation in this area has undoubtedly been reduced by the withdrawal of Iain Henderson. Henderson has been one of the standout performers for Ulster this season and would have been likely to have at least made the bench come test time given his versatility.

That leaves Dan Tuohy as the sole Ulster representative at lock. Tuohy is amongst those who have benefitted most from working with Mark Anscombe. Whilst always capable of carrying well and getting stuck in, under the Kiwi’s leadership Tuohy has developed a good offloading game and is much more reliable come scrum and lineout time.

With Donnacha Ryan out injured, I believe now is the time to give Tuohy a crack of the international whip. Whilst Mike McCarthy undoubtedly gave heart and soul for the cause last year I don’t believe he offers anything over and above Tuohy at this stage. Devin Toner obviously provides a terrific lineout option but must be more of a replacement for O’Connell rather than starting alongside. Again we wait to see how Schmidt sees the makeup of his new squad but Tuohy deserves a chance given his form of the past 15 months.

Back row

Players selected: Chris Henry, Roger Wilson

The back row is quite a straightforward selection for Joe Schmidt I would imagine. O’Mahony, O’Brien & Heaslip will start if fit. The only other questions are who might be blooded against Samoa and who will fill the bench?

The latter should be answered with the name Chris Henry. An all-rounder who can cover all backrow positions, Henry is the perfect bench replacement. His outstanding form over the past few weeks also strengthens his claims and Schmidt will know that he is an able replacement should any of his frontliners injure themselves.

Wilson’s chances must surely be slimmer. Only called up as cover due to injuries to others, Wilson may get some game time against Samoa but will carry the drinks otherwise. Harsh on a man who forced his way into the Ulster first team ahead of potential superstar Iain Henderson, but sadly I think the dye has already been cast on Wilson’s international career.

Half back

Players selected: Paddy Jackson

The omission of Paul Marshall caused some consternation amongst Ulster fans but I’m not sure what else we could have expected. Marshall is not a regular starter for Ulster and the constant comparison with Ruan Pienaar shows him in a fairly negative light. There is no doubt Marshall possesses quality but the improvement in Ulster’s performance against Leicester brought about by the introduction of Ryan Pienaar was perhaps the death knell for Marshall’s current international ambitions.

That Kieran Marmion hasn’t made it into the squad either is arguably a much greater surprise than Marshall’s omission. Marmion has been excellent for Connacht so far this season and is sure to be an international in the near future. Given the disciplinary proceedings hanging over the head of Connor Murray (at time of writing) I would be disappointed if the young Connacht scrum half wasn’t added to the squad in the event Murray isn’t available.

For Paddy Jackson it has been a terrific start to the season. Improving week on week, Jackson has been central to Ulster’s early season successes. That the general trend of his place kicking is a positive one is also a reason for cheer. Yet it is still not of the level Ian Madigan has attained so far this season so there is still work to be done.

Surely though Schmidt must have other requirements of his outhalves than just the ability to kick goals. He must question if Madigan manages the game as well as Jackson currently? Jackson’s performance against Leicester was one of the most complete I have seen from him in an Ulster shirt and he backed that up the very next week in Montpellier. He is full of confidence and his passing game is in fine fettle. Madigan, on the other hand, has frequently started from the bench for Leinster and hasn’t shown last season’s form so far this season.

Whilst Madigan is undoubtedly talented, can a player not starting for his province be selected at in such a pivotal position? Time will tell but I think Jackson’s form should earn him a spot amongst the replacements.

Centre

Players selected: Luke Marshall

Still no Darren Cave I hear many Ulster fans shout. The versatility of other squad members (such as Earls and McFadden) is perhaps the reason for this but it does seem Cave must do something which Irish coaches plainly don’t like. It would be churlish to suggest that Cave should be starting for Ireland but I am surprised he hasn’t been given a bit more of a chance.

Luke Marshall should reasonably expect to start all of the tests this autumn. Gordon D’Arcy has been a terrific servant to Irish rugby but it is difficult to see how he will be the first choice 12 come the next world cup. Marshall has performed well so far this season and is the future. Defensively excellent and growing as an attacking threat, Marshall needs international exposure to ensure he is ready come 2015. Any minutes the young Ballymena man can spent alongside Brian O’Driscoll will also be of benefit.

Back three

Players selected: Tommy Bowe, Andrew Trimble

Trimble’s inclusion mirrors that of Roger Wilson so discussion is fairly pointless at this stage. Conjecture over Tommy Bowe is also a zero sum game given he is a certainty to start. A two time Lion and confirmed world class performer, Bowe will be one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Craig Gilroy will undoubtedly reflect that his current injury problems have arrived at an inopportune moment given the injury to Simon Zebo also. Gilroy would surely have been the next name on the list if he was fully fit.

To my mind then, Ulster should have four names on Joe Schmidt’s first XV teamsheet, but in reality I reckon it’s perhaps more likely to be three with four Ulstermen taking up a place amongst the replacements. Whilst this seems like very few starters for the best team on the island so far this season, it is hard to argue that there should be any others included currently, given fitness issues in particular.

Ulster fans also need to remember that three or four of Ulster’s five most influential players aren’t Irish qualified. Naturally this is going to mean fewer international representatives. The sooner Jared Payne’s naturalisation period ends the better for all concerned in that area.

So Ulster fans should be wary of getting on Joe Schmidt’s back too early. Whilst plenty of Ulster players have performed exceptionally well so far this season, so have many others. Schmidt has chosen the majority of Ulster’s form players. Now it’s up to them to ensure they can’t be left out.

My name is Ryan Cullen and I am a 25 year old Ulster season ticket holder. I was introduced to the game around 15 years ago and have loved it ever since. I have an interest in pretty much all sports though so don’t be surprised to see a few football (Liverpool), Golfing and Racing interests (to name but a few) thrown in from time to time.

Ulster v Ospreys & Tigers

This HoR2 blog had it’s first post from an outside contributor back on June 12, 2012. 

It was a look back on Ulster’s 2011/12 campaign by Kristian Ross, a massive follower of the province despite living in Newcastle himself.

Kristian has since gone on to write regularly for the site and today he wins his 50th cap with his latest offering and thus joins Keego on our “Wall of Liginds”.

All of us involved with HarpinOnRugby would like to thank him for all his excellent posts in that time and we look forward to many more in the future.

In this latest piece he looks back over Ulster’s last two big victories.

We hope to add more names to the wall before the season is out! Fancy joining them one day?  Click here to find out how.

Ulster Rugby made it an incredibly memorable two weeks with superb consecutive wins over Ospreys and the Leicester Tigers in the RaboPRO12 and Heineken Cup respectively.

The Ospreys knew that Ulster would be no pushover at the Liberty Stadium, but Ulster knew the same, and the fact that Welsh side had champions pedigree meant Mark Anscombe’s men would have on their guard to avoid defeat. Buoyed by the big win over Treviso in the week previous, Ulster attacked well with some good passing and fluidity but failed to make anything of it and did suffer a blow when Craig Gilroy came off injured and was replaced by David McIlwaine. Discipline has always been a factor over the last few years for the Belfast based side, and Anscombe and his management team knew that if Ulster gave away too many penalties, they would be punished by Dan Biggar, who had already surpassed the thousand point mark in the RaboPRO12 at such a young age. Biggar put the Ospreys ahead via the boot, and a scrappy battle followed for the rest of the first half until when Dan Tuohy had alleged to have used the elbow, but from tv replays it could clearly be called as accidental and Biggar nailed what was a controversial penalty on the stroke of half time to give the Ospreys a six point cushion.

Judging by the state of the game in the first period, it hadn't been a one to remember, and with only six points the difference the Ulstermen knew they could easily get back into it with a score or two as long as they kept it tight within the first ten minutes of the second half. But things went wrong immediately, Michael Allen called for offside within the first minute of kick off and Biggar nailed yet another penalty to make it 9-0. Then to make matters worse, a few minutes later, young Irish international Luke Marshall was adjudged to have not rolled away in the tackle, and once more Dan Biggar sunk another kick to leave Ulster twelve points behind and in some serious trouble.

You cant always say that the decisions in a game swing towards a certain team every team, but it looked like the Ospreys could seemingly do no wrong in the eyes of Peter Fitzgibbon, and the 10,000 fans in the Liberty may have agreed, so Ulster fans did seem surprised when after forty eight minutes a collapsing scrum lead to a penalty being awarded and Paddy Jackson slotted to finally get Ulster off the mark.

For the remaining thirty minutes of the match, Paddy Jackson delivered a place kick masterclass that finally answered his critics perhaps once and for all. The second penalty awarded a few minutes after the first, Jackson converting from a difficult position to leave Ulster within range of Ospreys if they scored a try.

But they didn't need to. The Ospreys started to crumble as every minute ticked by, another collapsing scrum and Jackson was all to happy to bring Ulster within three points, and despite a brief Ospreys attack, seven minutes later Jackson levelled the scores at twelve apiece and had somehow managed to steady the ship and steer Ulster right back into the game.

With just eight minutes remaining, Ulster had victory in their sights, David McIlwaine away down the wing but was wrongly called by Fitzgibbon, in a game that has to said had been officiated in a error strewn way. But it hardly mattered to Ulster or their fans, as moments later Paddy Jackson made it five from a possible five to put Ulster in front for the first time and then to add to the Ospreys woes when Aaron Jarvis was binned and Jackson completed a perfect game with another successful kick making it 18-12 to the Ospreys.

However the Welsh region weren't finished, an Ulster knew all too well about conceding tries in the final seconds, and when the Ospreys launched a huge attack that move right up towards the away teams line, the fans at the Liberty dared to believe that the Ospreys may steal the game that the Ulstermen had tried to steal themselves until a knock on from the ‘Spreys say an Ulster scrum awarded, and the resulting clearance give Ulster what was a brilliant win at the Liberty that had shown so much spirit and desire when all had seemed lost.

And that spirit and desire was taken into the following week. Ulster Rugby were to start their Heineken Cup campaign against the Leicester Tigers. A sell out at Ravenhill, the biggest crowd at the ground since anyone could remember, and a game against the English champions that had huge significance, mainly due to the fact that it could be the tournaments final hurrah. As big games go this didn't disappoint, and it showed from the moment that Paddy Jackson kicked off.

Tommy Bowe returned following a brief layoff due to injury and almost had Ulster off to the perfect start if it hadn't been for a misplaced pass in an opening five minutes that had the makings of a classic, as high tempo rucking and free running wingers became the order of the day. As both teams swayed though, it was the Tigers that made the breakthrough and poor defence saw Toby Flood make too many yards before Leicester were able to switch the ball wide, leading to an easy first try by Logovii Mulipola that was converted very well from a difficult angle by ex Newcastle Falcons fly half Toby Flood.

In times of old, Ulster may have crumbled under the daunting pressure that was a big occasion but responded very well, as Paddy Jackson carried his impressive form with some world class kicking from the hand to give Ulster good field position. Ulster continued to knock on the proverbial door, and it was Jackson who finally provided the breakthrough, a cross field kick worthy of any highlight reel, and a wonderfully deft take by Tommy Bowe over on the far side to get the team in white right back into it. Jackson knocked over a difficult penalty to put Ulster on terms.

So far none of the 14,000 fans at Ravenhill had been anywhere near disappointed as an end to end game entertained the masses in what had been a perfect Heineken Cup encounter, Toby Flood put Leicester back ahead via the boot, trading penalties with Paddy Jackson who levelled the scoring, and then just before half time the young Irish outhalf gave Ulster the lead going into the interval, a huge psychological boost for the team that knew they were just forty minutes away from a huge victory.

As the second half started the key word was pressure. Pressure for Ulster to deliver, pressure not to make silly mistakes, pressure not to somehow slip up. Paddy Jackson thought that he had a dream start to the second half, sprinting nearly 90m to score what would have been surely one of the tries of the season, but failed to hear the referees whistle as he was narrowly said to have been offside, a huge disappointment for the fly half and for Ulster as it would have given the fifteen men out on the Ravenhill pitch some considerable breathing space. Toby Flood thwacked over the resulting penalty via the offside call and the game was level again.

This was turning point of Ulster’s game, and maybe when we look back on it at the end of the season perhaps the turning point of the campaign itself. Jackson put Ulster back ahead via the boot, and finally it looked like that Anscombe’s passionate team had the will to go on and finish off the Tigers and that's exactly what started to take place. Jordan Crane was binned for Leicester and Toby Flood missed a huge kick as Ulster started to dominate in the scrum through Tom Court. When another Jackson penalty went over for 19-13, finally it looked like it would be yet another case of Tiger taming in Belfast, and it was confirmed as Jackson slotted yet another kick to give Ulster an eleven point cushion.

Despite the earlier desire of both teams, they effectively started to settle for what they had or there abouts, Owen Williams trying a drop goal to get Leicester back within losing bonus point range, but his effort bounced off the post as the Tigers knew that the solitary point may prove crucial at the end of the group. Ulster may have felt slightly disappointed as they gave away one last penalty that Williams did successfully convert, but that's the only thing they would have been aggrieved about as the referee blew the full time whistle and Ulster ran out victors and started their Heineken Cup campaign in the best way possible.

So after weeks of criticism about Paddy Jackson, it’s time for people to eat their own words. The lad successfully almost single handily guided Ulster to a win in Swansea over the Ospreys and his mammoth contribution against Leicester Tigers showed us that with patience and understanding you can see what a fantastic player he is, the skills in the package : he can kick, tackle, pass well and make decent line breaks, therefore he does have the potential to go incredibly far in the green jersey of Ireland.

In all focussing on the two matches, it has to be said, it couldn't have went much better. The Ulstermen showed great determination and grit against both opposition's, coming back from a tough deficit against the Ospreys and not succumbing to the pressure of the occasion against the Leicester Tigers. With the opening few games of the season producing poor results, this was the time for Ulster to stand up, step and deliver, and they did it with consummate skill and great attitude. Mark Anscombe will definitely be pleased, the Ulstermen can match the big boys and can be a European powerhouse.

Is it too early to get carried away ? Perhaps so, but with Montpellier at the weekend I’m still smiling and I’m pretty sure anyone in the nine counties of the province and any other Ulster fan round the globe will be....

SUFTUM

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Paddy conquers Ospreylia

Jackson’s doubters were silenced in Swansea, writes Ryan Cullen…

Sometimes in sport pressure can become all consuming. The disappointment amongst fans can destroy a player’s confidence, press criticism can take its toll and the constant defence of a coach can be withering.

How pleasing it was then to see Paddy Jackson answer all his critics and put in a man of the match performance in Swansea on Friday night. Though not running the backline with as much fluency as we saw against Treviso, Jackson’s performance off the tee was one of a man who had rediscovered his timing, and perhaps more importantly, his confidence.

The 21 year olds 6 from 6 return was the undoubted highlight of staccato encounter in which both teams started with close to full strength line-ups. Seemingly affected by the importance of the game as a marker for future intent, neither side were capable of opening their game up and 5 point opportunities were few and far between as a result.

Ulster’s performance against an exceptionally strong Osprey’s pack will have undoubtedly pleased Mark Anscombe though. Taking on a pack with 5 Lions, Ulster’s set piece looked safe and solid and they ultimately triumphed at the breakdown, leaving Mark Anscombe with some big decisions to make before this Friday’s clash with Leicester in the Heineken Cup.

John Afoa will undoubtedly return provided he is confirmed as match fit, harsh as that is on Declan Fitzpatrick. That is the easy bit for Anscombe though; who he fills the back 5 positions in the pack with is where he will earn his money. Henderson or Tuohy alongside Muller? Henderson, Henry and Williams or Diack, Henry and Wilson? I don’t believe you can leave a fit Iain Henderson out currently and given the power of the Leicester pack he and Dan Tuohy would be my choices at 5 & 6.

Chris Henry, who is starting to really hit his straps again, will start at 7, leaving Anscombe to choose between Wilson and Williams. Most casual observers would assume Williams is a nailed on starter, but that is to forget the qualities Wilson can bring. Experienced, aggressive in defence and exceptional at the base of the scrum, Wilson is the kind of player who does a lot of good work without always getting the credit he deserves.

It would still be a surprise to see Williams left out of the first XV but there can be little doubt who would be likely to make the bigger impact off the bench if the game is tight with half an hour to go.

The backline should be a much more straightforward selection process now the unfortunate Craig Gilroy seems likely to miss out due to injury. This should allow Jared Payne to move back to 15 and Tommy Bowe to come in on the wing to partner Andrew Trimble in a formidable looking back 3.

The return of Ruan Pienaar will be the only other decision Anscombe will have to make. A few weeks ago the return of the mercurial South African couldn’t have come sooner but since then Paul Marshall has hit form and played well in the past three games. It would still be a surprise if Pienaar didn’t start but it isn’t the formality some might think.

So Ulster will go into the game at pretty much full strength and in good form, a combination that usually sees to pretty much anybody when playing at Ravenhill. Four points is the minimum requirement and denying Leicester a bonus point may also prove crucial in the long run.

For their part, Leicester has started the season fairly well and certainly won’t come to Ravenhill fearing Ulster. Their scrum demolished a solid looking Northampton outfit regularly at the weekend and they always do the basics well. With quality half backs and the lethal Vereniki Goneva likely to start, Leicester has plenty of firepower that would cause any team problems. As always, the breakdown will be absolutely crucial and the battle between Salvi and Henry is likely to be a cracker.

Despite the cloud hanging over the competition, the first weekend of the Heineken Cup is always one to savour and this year promises to be as good as ever. Ospreys v Leinster, Toulon v Glasgow and Racing Metro v Clermont are all games that could grace a quarter final whilst Edinburgh v Munster will be an excellent test for Munster credentials.

I have also been fortunate enough to get tickets to the Castres v Northampton game on Saturday evening. I’ve never been to a game in France before and cannot wait to experience what I’m told is an amazing atmosphere at Stade Pierre Antoine. Though it will need to go some to beat Ravenhill after Friday night I reckon.

A weekend of terrific rugby awaits. Hopefully the recommencement of the world’s greatest club competition will remind some people of the brilliance of what they seem so eager to throw on the scrapheap.

My name is Ryan Cullen and I am a 25 year old Ulster season ticket holder. I was introduced to the game around 15 years ago and have loved it ever since. I have an interest in pretty much all sports though so don’t be surprised to see a few football (Liverpool), Golfing and Racing interests (to name but a few) thrown in from time to time.

Ulster v Connacht & Treviso

A double-bill of reviews from our intrepid Ulster correspondent Kristian Ross…

Ulster Rugby completed a successful Round 3 and 4 and finally got their RaboPRO12 season off the mark with wins over Connacht and Benetton Treviso.

Ulster who went into the Connacht game having lost both their opening fixtures, first after a shoddy performance against the Dragons and second a bitter defeat to Glasgow Warriors in the final minutes knew they had to try and get the first W of the season in the opening InterPro derby of the campaign. It didn't start well either for the Ulstermen, Dan Parks capitalising on some sloppy Ulster defence to Connacht ahead with the opening try of the match, but after some good flowing rugby from the Belfast side, Ulster were able to touch down through Michael Allen in the corner, before a cagey twenty minutes followed, with both sides missing kicks via Parks and Paddy Jackson. Ulster were once again losing ground through silly mistakes and as the half time whistle blew, Connacht fans knew that if Ulster failed to kill off the game like they did against Glasgow, they could produce a scalp.

But as the second half started Ulster started to produce some classy rugby, Craig Gilroy entered the fray on his return from injury, and some good Ulster pressure saw the Connacht back line struggle to cope, as last years PRO12 finalists when ahead through Paddy Jackson’s penalty. And it was Jackson who had came under so much criticism in the first two games steer Ulster in to a commanding position, scoring a wonderful try and the adding a great conversion to give Ulster a 15-7 lead. Another Jackson penalty made sure that an eleven point advantage would be too much for Connacht to deal with, and despite some late pressure, Ulster held on for what was a decent victory and more or less a vital one.

The following week saw Ulster take on Bennetton Treviso, essentially a bogey team and a team who would possibly pose a huge challenge for nine county province. Treviso who had managed to scrape a draw last season following Ulster butchering what was certain victory were going into the game having already toppled Munster. With the mistakes having been clearly visible over the first three games, Mark Anscombe’s team knew the must try and finally get back to the ways of old and it started very well and they had returning British and Irish Lions in Tommy Bowe and Rory Best to do so.

Luke Marshall opened the try scoring account following Michael Allen’s earlier disallowed try via the TMO after Paddy Jackson and Mat Berquist had exchanged penalties, and Michael Allen did his try eventually as Ulster took the game by the scruff of the neck going into half time. The change from the side was quite remarkable, as the Ulstermen finally all looked like they were on the same wavelength. Treviso showed fantastic fighting spirit, some great pressure only rewarded with a penalty, and despite the fact that Ulster had been penned back, they made it three tries after Paddy Jackson’s cross field kick caught Treviso’s Ludovic Nitolglia napping, and Tommy Bowe scored on his return to send Ravenhill wild. Ulster then again started to knock at the door, and fantastic work from Luke Marshall saw the other returnee complete a dream start back as Rory Best made sure of the bonus point.

Treviso still weren't finished and when Lewis Stevenson was binned Robert Barbieri went over to cut the gap, but even after pressure in the last ten minutes from the Italians, Michael Allen continued his superb start to the season with a fifth try in the corner capping off an incredible night in Belfast as Ulster had merely sweeped Treviso aside by a comprehensive margin of thirty two points to thirteen.

Finally after the opening two weeks of the season Mark Anscombe has something to smile about after a half decent performance against Connacht and a very well oiled game against Treviso. Clearly this was evident in his post match interviews with tv coverage, and maybe some relief as well after what had clearly been a tough week, not just for the head coach and players but for the fans as well.

It’s a good platform as well for Ulster to build on, they are certainly going to need confidence, the next three fixtures being incredible tough, a trip to the Liberty Stadium to play Ospreys, before this year’s Heineken Cup campaign starts (hopefully not the last) with a tie against old foes and current English champions Leicester Tigers at Ravenhill and then a away tie against Montpellier at the Stade Yves Manoir in France on the 19th October.

At last it seems that Ulster may have found that winning formula and that as the season now starts to gain pace, the next few weeks will certainly give Ulster the challenge and give them the opportunity to show that they are able to take on the big boys and win and therefore prove a point to Europe’s heavyweights. But for now it’s time to just sit back, relax and watch Ulster climb the PRO12 table, our season has finally started... let the SUFTUMING in Europe begin.

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Ulster need to stay focused

Last season’s start was an exception rather than a rule for Ulster, writes Ryan Cullen…

No need to panic

Never has the old adage ‘it’s a marathon not a sprint’ been so apt.

This time last year Ulster started at a gallop, producing the best rugby of their season before Christmas and drawing acclaim from seasoned observers and supporters alike. Fast forward 12 months and the collective groan at the conclusion of Glasgow’s visit to Ravenhill tells you all you need to know.

The blend of physicality and fluidity that seemed to come so easily to Ulster at the start of last season seems like a pipedream currently. Where once passes were fast and flat, they now loop and stop their intended receivers. Lines of running often seem dim and communication less than clear.

But, 2012 -13 aside, was it not always thus? Last season was the exception, not the rule. It is to be expected that players will not hit their stride straight away. And the bare facts of two defeats from two games do not tell the whole story.

Looking more closely at results so far, whilst the first game in Newport was a pretty turgid affair, Ulster would have emerged with the victory had Paddy Jackson brought his kicking boots with him. And had just one of the numerous try scoring opportunities created against Glasgow on Friday night been converted, the late Warriors try would have been irrelevant. A couple of small changes and Ulster could be sitting pretty, two from two.

Secondly, it is important to look at the playing squad. It is fair to say that Ulster will realistically make up to 10 changes for the first round of the Heineken Cup. The starting line-ups put out so far certainly haven’t been weak ones, particularly at Ravenhill last Friday, but neither have they been the best XV.

Of course it would have been nice to have registered at least one win by now but this relatively minimal short term pain could lead to significantly more long term gain. The delayed start to the season so many of the premier players are having can only be beneficial come the business end of the season.

It would be disingenuous to suggest Ulster didn’t win anything last season because they were tired but surely having fresher players in the new year cannot be a bad thing. More generally, it is pleasing to see Irish provinces considering long-term player welfare after the gruelling summer itineraries taken in by some players. It is certainly a stark contrast to the policies adopted by many of the other clubs in Europe.

Of course, this all assumes that Ulster will be needing fresh players come the spring. Whilst Heineken Cup last eight qualification may prove difficult this year, failure to qualify for the Pro12 playoffs and at least the Amlin Cup would be unacceptable given the depth and quality of the squad at Mark Anscombe’s disposal.

Should Ulster start the Heineken Cup well and get back on track over the next few weeks, the memory of the two sub-par performances to start the season will quickly vanish. Mark Anscombe and his men certainly won’t be panicking. Neither should anybody else.

Never to be forgotten

Friday night at Ravenhill saw the marking of the one year anniversary of the Spence family tragedy.

I didn’t know Nevin Spence nor did I ever meet him, but the best tribute I can pay to him is that he was the type of player any club would love to have. As with any professional player he was talented and tough. But his standout quality was his unswerving commitment.

Never shirking a tackle, always running that hard angle and putting his body on the line for the sake of the team – that was Nevin Spence. That he is being immortalised at the new Ravenhill is entirely fitting.

It was also heart-warming to see the messages of support and tribute coming in from around the rugby world over the past week. Once again the rugby community has demonstrated that whilst there is no sport more competitive, there is a genuine bond between all those involved in the sport.

Unions must stand firm in battle for control

The battle for the future of European rugby stepped up a gear with the announcement of plans for a new competition by the representatives of English and French clubs. Without entering into a discussion of the whys and wherefores of the debate, everyone must by now be aware that the future of European rugby is on the line.

Under the proposals of English and French clubs, the sustainability of professional European rugby outside of England and France is questionable. The Six Nations would become a mere husk. Hopes of broadening the base of Rugby Union playing nations would disappear. It is not simply the future of the Heineken and Amlin Cups that is at stake in coming months.

Most rational people can see that English and French clubs have some valid points regarding the current European setup. The Pro12 is not on a par with the Premiership and Top 14 in terms of overall competitiveness. Financially, English clubs do not get a fair deal from their Union. French clubs do have to play their best players much more often to ensure qualification for the European competitions.

Whilst these are undoubtedly legitimate concerns, they cannot be used to bully the rest of Europe down a road from which there will be no turning back. If the Unions and IRB do not stand firm now, Rugby Union as we know it will likely change forever.

My name is Ryan Cullen and I am a 25 year old Ulster season ticket holder. I was introduced to the game around 15 years ago and have loved it ever since. I have an interest in pretty much all sports though so don’t be surprised to see a few football (Liverpool), Golfing and Racing interests (to name but a few) thrown in from time to time.

Plenty of time for Ulster

No need at all for Ulster fans to panic, says Kristian Ross…

So here we are. Ulster Rugby. Two games in. We can all be honest. It hasn't gone well.

The opening day saw optimism that Ulster would easily breeze past the Dragons and kick off the RaboPRO12 with a win. A perfect start with the momentum going into the match against the Glasgow Warriors. But unfortunately things have went dreadfully wrong. And after the two opening rounds last years finalists find themselves with two defeats from two games played.

The home fans at Rodney Parade never had it better as Ulster were simply not good enough against Newport on the opening day. The lacked attacking threat and didn't score any points at all in the second half. Fair enough, the Ulstermen are missing key players, but it was written in stone even after the first eighty minutes of the season. Ulster must sort this... and quick.

Fast forward a week and Ulster were at the newly redeveloped Ravenhill for their first competitive game. The Warriors weren't going to be a pushover and Ulster knew this. With David McIlwaine and Ian Porter in the Ulster squad it’s clear that Ulster will use their youth this season, various and injuries and international duties keeping out certain figures, but its those figures that were missed most on Friday evening in Belfast. Stuart Hogg put the visitors ahead, but Paddy Jackson banished the demons of a poor kicking performance against the Dragons to level the scores. Jackson hit a total of four penalties over the sticks as Ulster led 12-6 at half time.

Six points clear at the interval was good enough, considering how Ulster had played, but come the full time whistle, Ulster were left to rue their second half performance. Long periods of domination \9and a gilt edged try scoring opportunity for Luke Marshall) seemingly had Glasgow on the proverbial ropes, but some excellent defending saw the Warriors hold off the Ulstermen, and when Paddy Jackson missed the chance to send Ulster nine points ahead, they knew that a possible win could be snatched with the right formula. As Glasgow pressured the Ulster line, the fans at Ravenhill could only watch in disbelief as James Eddie bundled over the line with seconds left on the clock and Stuart Hogg’s conversion gave the Scots the points. It was a truly poor night for Ulster who should have won the game comfortably. It was summed up the post match interviews of Johan Muller who looked totally desolate at the defeat, and head coach Mark Anscombe, who seemed positively furious that Ulster had for the second week failed to win, albeit this time round with a seemingly dominant performance. It was a bitter pill to swallow, but a few people then started to question the players, one being Paddy Jackson again.

First of all Jackson has came under quite a bit of criticism over the week, much like in February when the Six Nations took place. Personally I thought he was decent against the Dragons, and despite his one miss answered the critics well. Fans and pundits alike surely must realised that young players, not just Jackson, must be allowed to mature at their own rate, and that the pressure thrust upon them is huge. A certain Johnny Sexton was always commented on with many saying that he’d forever be in O’Gara’s shadow. Look at him now. One of the richest paid rugby players on the planet, plying his trade at a big European club.

Secondly is the young players who are currently within the Ulster squad. As mentioned before David McIlwaine and Ian Porter started the game, and some fans not just of Ulster but of the provinces must understand that these players were thrown in at the deep end this week, and that Ulster’s aforementioned injury problems have already played a part in the poor opening start of the season. When world class players like John Afoa, Tommy Bowe and Ruan Pienaar are all vacant from the starting line up.

In truth, we must not panic just yet. Two defeats is far from the ideal start, yes. But if Ulster just finally develop that killer edge we may see them quickly re-establish the form that they worked so very hard for last season, and as time goes on the big names will return, providing the strength and depth that is needed in order to go on and make a serious challenge for the league. Anscombe is still the right man to take us forward and I am sure that the game against Connacht will see a differently spirited side to the one that took on Glasgow and the Dragons. Just remember... There are still another twenty rounds to go....

Finally on a sad note, it was a year ago on Sunday that Nevin Spence and his brothers Graham and Noel passed away in a farming accident. Nevin who displayed all the clinical attributes and good attitude at Ulster Rugby was sure to be a future international star having already played for the Wolfhounds. The tributes posted on social media and within the news this week has shown that Nevin will never be forgotten, as well of course the new education and heritage centre at Ravenhill being named after him. Despite the fact that he is gone, he’ll always be in everyone’s thoughts. Rest in Peace Nev.

And as always...

Stand Up For The Ulstermen.

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Pienaar can't return quickly enough for Ulster

Difficult first night out for Ulster’s half-backs as they are downed by the Men of Gwent, writes Manus McMichael…

As Ulster started the season this weekend they had a poor outing more reminiscent of the Ravenhill men from four or five years ago. Knock-ons, poor restarts, poor decision making and goal-kicking completely off the radar.

The lineout collapsed, almost a complete liability, turning over the ball more often than not. Complete domination in the scrum and maul were not used to the full benefit, and the back row was absolutely outplayed as the carrying, tackling and rucking had little effect throughout. Having said that, Roger Wilson's score was a very patient and calculated effort. Also his control at the back of the scrum was exceptional, The “Sarge” was missed last year in the tight games.

Paul Marshall had a disastrous outing, being charged down, caught in possession and passing repeatedly behind the first receiver or above their head. Jackson admittedly had a very good game in the 10 shirt, as an outhalf. With a somewhat inexperienced centre partnership and left winger. Taking the ball to the gainline, fast fizzing passes and great accuracy considering the service he had been getting. Kicking for goal from the young man though was once again inexcusably bad. Nothing really else to say here, as it has already been said by the masses of “experts” on Twitter. A real long hard look at the way the he kicks the balls is going to need to be taken. He was not this bad of a kicker a few years ago, and he has not lost any confidence by the way the rest of his game looks, so something is up with his technique. And even though it is not required for an outhalf to kick for goal in rugby per se, this is Irish Rugby, and in Irish Rugby outhalves live and die by their goal kicking. There is no other way to describe how our coaches and selectors approach the number ten position. To ensure that he stays within the plans of the IRFU, he must address the problem to progress as a player.

Ian Porter was a welcome replacement at half-back. His pass was considerably better and his decision-making is somewhat more conservative, if not maybe too conservative at times. He had a nice break down the right flank, some classy hands shown on the way. At the end of the game Ulster where pushing and punishing the Dragons on their tryline, basically all the Welsh forwards where drawn in to the collision area, and the Ulster backs were clearly screaming for the ball as a try was certain down the left, yet Porter stood back and let the likes of non-penetrative carriers such as Declan Fitzpatrick take the ball on first-up crashes and pick and goes – all the way from one side of the pitch to the other, perhaps this is where the ever mercurial Paul Marshall becomes a hero as he so often does. It is my opinion that Porter should start next week and that Marshall should be brought on as the “Super-Sub”. That is where his strength is, top end speed and a carnivorously attack focussed mind that is detrimental to his team against defences that are not tired, yet against the same teams after sixty plus minutes – he's dynamite. With a little more experience Porter might learn that in the same situation again he needs to pull the trigger, with 50 times capped Andrew Trimble and the gunslinger Jared Payne on the three quarter line there will be results.

James McKinney did not really have enough time or ball to change the game, two decent kicks to touch from generous positions and a good pass that Fitzpatrick ignored are the only things that stick out. It should be noted that McKinney is a good goal-kicker and did not get any chances to show this, but from what has been seen, not the first-five that Paddy Jackson is. I am not saying that if Jackson kicked all his goals the Irish side would have won, because in that situation Tovey would have to also have kicked all his goals, and he missed a fair few himself. The lesson here is that with Pienaar on the pitch the Northern-most province are a much better team, the goals will be kicked and the cool-headedness on show almost always sees them home. They would not have been in the position to lose this game with 20 minutes to go.

The performance as a whole was chaotic with little invention and that must be addressed, no amount of top-class kickers can change that.

Manus McMichael (@The_Dange) : One-time Irish exile living on the border.

Time for Ulster to deliver

It’s a huge season for Ulster and Kristian Ross will be with us every step of the way…

Bliss. That's what we will call it. Friday September 5th 2013, after a long sporting summer that included a Lions win in Australia under Warren Gatland, the rugby has finally returned, the RaboPRO12 is back, and the pent up excitement that has built during pre season will finally be unleashed when Ulster take on the Dragons in their second season under Mark Anscombe at Rodney Parade.

It’s a huge season for Ulster and every fan not just in the nine counties, but in Ireland and the rest of Europe knows it. This will be Anscombe’s second attempt at glory, after coming so close last season by being ousted by Leinster at the RDS in the PRO12 final, just like the season before that when the boys in blue beat the Ulstermen in the Heineken Cup final. However it has to be noted, Ulster matured last season, not just in a minor way, but massively. The opening of the season was as we all know, a try fest and up until December the province was still unbeaten.

Even after injuries to big players and a dip in form in the earlier months of 2013, Ulster still went on and made the PRO12 final with minimal ease. Yes, they were beaten, but they finished top of the regular season programme like true champions, and had some truly outstanding victories on the way. It was an emotional rollercoaster from day one of the season, ups and downs, highs such as a first win over Leinster at the RDS since the 90’s and lows such as the passing of brave Nevin Spence, who will always be remembered as someone who every time he wore the white jersey showed the attributes and superb attitude that Ulster Rugby is all about.

Saying farewell to last season, changes are starting to be seen in Belfast. The completion of two new stands in the development of Ravenhill has seen the capacity increase and when the project is finally finished, Ulster fans will see their team play in a fantastic stadium that no doubt the heart and soul of the old stands will be taken forward as fans take their brand new seats. New Ravenhill was christened with a brilliant win over Leinster in pre season, a late Ian Porter try sealing the win. Porter is one of Anscombe’s acquisitions that has previously played for the province, and although the head coach hasn't added big names into his squad, he has installed faith in returning players such as James McKinney and David McIlwaine.

Ulster finished off the pre season with a disappointing defeat to Leicester Tigers, although who did play a very talented squad. And in terms of talent it will be the key figures of last years squad that will once again have to rise to the occasion, players such as Nick Williams, Andrew Trimble and Ruan Pienaar as well as Tommy Bowe when he returns injury. Ulster fans were certainly buoyed when it was announced that Stephen Ferris would be staying to the end of the year at least, a return for him would certainly be something to make any fan smile.

The PRO12 clock has ticked down, and the start is almost upon us again. Ulster this season must look to go that one step further and finally get rid of that ’’nearly’’ tag. The Heineken Cup campaign will hopefully be a successful one after the disappointment of going out against Saracens last year. All in all, it has to be outlined, highlighted and told : Mark Anscombe has a quality squad, that possess fantastic skill and abilities and that have what it takes to become Celtic League champions. The one word that Anscombe and me alike as well as every other fan will be thinking over this campaign is this : DELIVER

The time has come.... so let us begin.

Stand Up For The Ulstermen

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.

Exciting times for Ulster fans

A new season is upon us and @cyberryan87 is back with his regular contributions to HoR2…

At this stage of every year excitement begins to build for all European rugby fans. With the summer hiatus coming to an end, a season full of promise and opportunity awaits even those who plumbed the depths of despair just a few short months ago. For all, hope shines bright every August.

And for Ulster fans, that light seems to be shimmering more brightly than for some time going into the 2013-14 season.

Ulster have certainly made significant physical progress over the summer months. The two end stands, which were still just shells at the time of the Pro12 semi-final against the Scarlets, are now completed and will be unveiled at the special pre-season fixture with Leinster this Friday evening. With work on the main stand well underway also, Ulster fans will be able to get a feel for just how their home will look this time next year.

That Ulster have managed to keep all of last season’s squad together is another reason for excitement ahead of the new season. In recent years Leinster have demonstrated the benefits of continuity and there is certainly a belief that Mark Anscombe can take the team on again having had a full season to now adjust to European rugby.

Although there weren’t any ‘marquee’ arrivals, the retention of John Afoa is better than almost any signing Ulster could have made in the close season. The news that Stephen Ferris is remaining at the club for the foreseeable future has also provided an unexpected boost. Let’s hope he can now get fit again.

That the likes of Paddy Jackson, Luke Marshall and Iain Henderson now have a full season in their legs and that should see them make further progress, whilst the return of James McKinney to the squad will provide some much needed competition for the number 10 shirt. It certainly wouldn’t be a major shock to see him pushing for a starting spot sooner rather than later.

Sadly, the Pro12 doesn’t seem any stronger than last season. Perennial challengers Leinster and Munster should provide stern competition, as should last year’s surprise package Glasgow, but it’s hard to see beyond these four clubs for the playoff spots at this stage. Let’s hope the Welsh regions can throw up at least one challenger.

In the Heineken Cup, Ulster could certainly have been handed an easier pool but it would be a major disappointment if they weren’t right there with Leicester fighting for top spot. Montpellier and Treviso are increasingly dangerous sides but it would certainly be a surprise if Ulster’s encounters with Leicester weren’t the defining factors of this group.

All in all, Ulster’s on-field chances should be at least as good as they were last season. The squad is stronger now than at this stage last year and there are genuine reasons to think there is potential for some further improvement.

Anything other than a spot in the Pro12 playoffs and another Heineken Cup QF place will certainly be deemed a failure.

Of course, Ulster fans have the new Irish era to look forward to also. Joe Schmidt’s appointment has been met with almost universal acclaim but with that good will comes high hopes and big expectations. That he needs to make progress from last year is a given but given the upheaval since the Six Nations it would be unfair to expect miracles straight away.

Much like Stuart Lancaster did when he took over the England role, Schmidt must be prepared to lose games in the short term to gain ground long term. Ireland’s primary aim is the World Cup in 2015 and a few autumn and Six Nations defeats in the interim will be long forgotten if Schmidt can take Ireland to a semi-final.

For now though, thoughts of Ireland are at the back of the mind as we all look forward to the return of Friday nights at Ravenhill. Bring it on!

My name is Ryan Cullen and I am a 25 year old Ulster season ticket holder. I was introduced to the game around 15 years ago and have loved it ever since. I have an interest in pretty much all sports though so don’t be surprised to see a few football (Liverpool), Golfing and Racing interests (to name but a few) thrown in from time to time.

#fleefly

OK…you know the way we said we were taking a break?  Well Kristian Ross got this post in under the wire, just…

For all those who missed it, yesterday as an Ulster fan you were probably at work, or looking after the kids, maybe in the back garden, or even on your holidays.

The day started off very slowly on Twitter regarding Ulster Rugby news. Like the rest of summer so far, nothing much seemed to be occurring. But early afternoon saw possibly the best antics from the lads we have ever seen via social networking sites.

Ulster Rugby released a video with Mark Anscombe giving the fans the lowdown. The challenge was simple. All of the Ulster lads had to make it to the team meeting in Donegal on Tuesday night by 8pm. But they had to do so with a difference. No team bus. Just simply make your own way there.

Hilarious. The lads will split in to teams of three, that then met up to pair with another team to form teams of six with various tasks ahead of them. These included shopping, calling in at BOI branches (an Ulster team sponsor) and travelling via Ulster Bus.

Nick Williams, Craig Gilroy and Iain Henderson to name a few all sported some rather nice women’s clothing with pictures of the antics being posted frequently including shots of budgie smugglers being worn by Sean Doyle and Ricky Lutton on top of Lavery’s in Belfast. Roger Wilson, Callum Black and Declan Fitzpatrick posted numerous tweets of the escapades going on with conditioning coach Jonny Davis explaining that tweets by the players and challenges completed would earn points. Stephen Ferris in Dominoes in Lisburn, various players larking about at Lough Erne, Darren Cave pulling pints in what only can be describe as him wearing very little material with Michael Allen missing in action for a while and not mention James McKinney’s imaginary run in with a bus that lead to the hashtag #prayformckinney.

All of the days proceedings were followed with #suftumnation and #fleefly that eventually lead to the events of the afternoon trending UK wide. In the end it was Team’s 6 and 13 that arrived in Bundoran ahead of everyone else.

A hearty congratulations to Paddy McAllister, Alan O’Connor and Chris Cochrane, as well as Johnny Murphy, Paddy Jackson and Andrew Trimble. It certainly brought a smile to everyone’s faces that I know of yesterday, and will be remembered for years to come (the videos and photos will make sure of that).

All in all, if you are an Ulster fan and you weren't on Twitter yesterday, you missed one a cracker. But don't fret, as Jonny Davis said at the end of the challenge yesterday... ‘’Stayed tuned over the next few days #freefly2 ‘’. Ulster Rugby : Kings of the PRO12 banter department.

I'm Kristian. 19. And my mind is filled with rugby shaped thoughts. Supporting Ulster Rugby, Newcastle Falcons and of course the mighty Ireland. Tommy Bowe is the MAN !!!! SUFTUM.