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Ulternative Alster Fan Club
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Welcome to the Ulternative Alster Fan Club - the Independent Supporter's club website for Ulster Rugby. Some features you will recognise, but many others will be new. We aim to provide a positive web experience for our visitors and if you like what you see, let us know here.
Ulster team named for Edinburgh Brian McLaughlin has named his starting XV, ahead of Sunday's Magners League match, against Edinburgh, at Murrayfield. The backs see Jamie Smith return at full back, with Simon Danielli moving to the wing and Nevin Spence drops to the bench. Niall O’Connor starts at out half, with Ian Humphreys as a replacement. In the pack, Captain Rory Best starts as hooker, with BJ Botha as tight head prop. Andy Kyriacou is named as a replacement. Dan Tuohy starts inthe second row in place of Ryan Caldwell. Stephen Ferris starts at No 6, and Willie Faloon as open side flanker. Ulster Coach Brian McLaughlin said: “We are all very positive heading to face Edinburgh. We have played them quite a few times this season; the last time at Ravenhill we gained the points. In September, when we faced them in the league, we were narrowly defeated by 3 points. We had a really strong first half, but just couldn’t sustain it, and that’s been our problem over the last number of games, doing well early on, but just unable to sustain it until the final whistle. “The players are training hard, and working well together. Everyone knows what is expected of them. Yesterday the IRFU Defence Coach Les Kiss was up doing a lot of work with us, and our attack is solid. “So it is just a matter of going out at Murrayfield on Sunday with the attitude that we can gain the victory. “We have to be mentally and physically tough and make sure we don’t give away soft, cheap and easy points,” continued McLaughlin. Ulster Team (15-9) Jamie Smith, Andrew Trimble, Darren Cave, Ian Whitten, Simon Danielli, Niall O’Connor, Paul Marshall (1-8) Tom Court, Rory Best (Capt), BJ Botha, Ed O’Donoghue, Dan Tuohy, Stephen Ferris, Willie Faloon, Robbie Diack Replacements (16-22) Andy Kyriacou, Bryan Young, Ryan Caldwell, TJ Anderson, Isaac Boss, Ian Humphreys, Nevin Spence Chris Henry will not be travelling due to a family issue
"Baa Humbug!". Click on the link above or below:
Ulster v Stade Français - Dupuy gouge
Ulster v Glasgow - Tom Court try
Highights Ulster v Bedford Blues from BBC
Ulster losa but gain a precious bonus point Ulster came to this game after a weeks break, and it may have been a telling holiday. Paul Marshall gave Ulster the lead with a breakaway try after three minutes and Ulster led 5-3 at half-time. A late try by Smith, 2 penalties and a conversion by Ian Humphreys couldn't match the edinburgh 2nd half backlash. Graeme Morrison scroed a try for Glasgow, and Dan Parks added a further 3 drop goals and a penalty to hold Ulster into second place. Not a great time for the Ulstermen at the moment, and with only Edinburgh and Connacht left to play, their 3rd Irish HEC qualififying placing is in jeopardy.
Ulster contrive to lose again Despite an improved performance, and some gutsy displays by Ulster, silly individual errors and the inability to turn a 1 man advantage into points cost Ulster tonight. In a high octane game, both sides tried using the ball, with Ulster demonstrating strength in the rucks, mauls and lineouts, and a willingness to run through the backs. Ulster managed to score 2 tries, a blistering run by Danielli who scored near the posts, and the 2nd by Trimble who handed-off before making the line. Niall O'Connor had a mixed game, kicking some good penalties, and conversions (although one disallowed) and kicking for territory. He played well enough to make up for his short-sighted chip which led to the James Hook try for Ospreys. Nevertheless, Ulster should have hung onto their half-time lead, and captulated during their 1 man advantage. Instead they gave away 6 points, and ended up continually chasing. Too many errors and indiscipline let the Ospreys back into the game, and oor Ulster hero Tommy Bowe dealt the killing blow after a shambolic loose ball and hack upfield by Jones.
Ulster have the Blues Ulster should have scored when they had a chance. A disallowed try after Cardiff's initial breakaway, and the men in white seemed to lose their way. On 2 or 3 occasions, Ulster had their chances, but strong Cardiff defence highlighted the Blues stronger determination. New Ulster player Xavier Rush scored their 2nd, and Ulster began to feel the Blues. After Stephen Ferris went off injured, Cardiff knew they had a chance, and took it, plying pressure on Ulster, and getting a well-worked try, taking the game beyond Ulster's reach. Ulster rallied towards the end, Chris henry scoring in the corner, and Ian Humphreys making a brilliant conversion from the touchline, but it was too little too late, as time ran out for Ulster, and we took another step closer to the bottom of the table.
Ulster team named Ulster Head Coach Brian McLaughlin has named his starting XV against Cardiff Blues, at Ravenhill. Isaac Boss returns as scrum half, with Paul Marshall starting the match on the bench. Declan Fitzpatrick replaces Tom Court (injured) at loose head. Ed O’Donoghue starts at No 4, with Dan Tuohy moving to the replacements. Chris Henry will again captain the team. Commenting on the Magners League clash, Ulster Coach Brian McLaughlin said: “Saturday night is going to be a really big game for us. It is one that we have got to turn up to, get our act together and play in front of our own fans at Ravenhill, to show them exactly what we are capable off. “Training has gone very well this week, despite the weather. We have been fortunate to get the use of the indoor facility at the Sports Institute of Northern Ireland at Jordanstown, so our sessions have be very productive. “We are really looking forward to the weekend because in the last two games we have not done ourselves justice; we have had disappointing displays against the Scarlets and Cardiff. We just want to get back to Ravenhill and play the way we can play, and play for our fans.” Ulster (15-9) Jamie Smith, Andrew Trimble, Darren Cave, Paddy Wallace, Simon Danielli, Niall O’Connor Isaac Boss Replacements (16-22) Andi Kyriacou, Bryan Young, Dan Tuohy, Robbie Diack, Paul Marshall, Ian Whitten, Timoci Nagusa! Going Nowhere fast... Read the latest thoughts on the forum...
Cardiff lucky? NOT! Take one white pack, add a few aimless backs, mixed with a smattering of penalties, top off with a couple of yellow cards, and what do you get? Another poor performance by Ulster. So much was expected of this team and their new manager this season, but a very low rank in the table is all that seems to be in store for BMcL's first year in charge. But, let's not give up, there's some games left, and a return fixture next week is needed to bolster the Ulster faithful.
Indisciplined Ulster taught a lesson Strange decisions by the ref, and some unlucky Ulster handling, not to mention the poor discipline, led to a whipping by the Scarlets at a time when Ulster reallly needed to show they are capable of winning away from home. Ulster failed to impress. Individual errors were the name of the day, and Paddy Wallace's try couldn't make up for the points scored against Ulster during their moments of madness and 2 yellow cards.
Ulster lack the killer instinct! Ulster dominated tonight's game at Ravenhill, but at 17 - 6 ahead, they couldn't find their killer instinct and failed to put the Dragons out of the game. 4 missed penalties by Ian Humphreys contributed to this, but the sheer number of penalties given against Ulster, as well as Luke Chateris' excellent kicking helped the Dragons equalise, and remain in contention. Ulster played all the rugby, but only managed to break the dragons strong defence twice.
Ulster Team Named For Dragons At Ravenhill Ulster Head Coach Brian McLaughlin today named his starting XV, plus replacements, for Friday's game against the Dragons. Rory Best makes his Ulster return starting as hooker, replacing Nigel Brady who starts on the bench. With Stephen Ferris away on international duty, TJ Anderson steps into the No 6 jersey. Ian Humphreys returns to the starting line-up at out half. Chris Henry again captains the Ulster Team. Ulster Coach Brian McLaughlin said: "It's a vital game for us on Friday night. The Dragons are sitting on the same points as us in the Magners League, so it's a game that we must win" (16 - 22) Nigel Brady, Declan Fitzpatrick, Ryan Caldwell, Robbie Diack, Ian Porter, Ian Whitten, Timoci Nagusa
The Ulster Ravens drew 21-21 in the 3rd round of the British and Irish Cup against Llanelli at Parc y Scarlets this evening. The Ulstermen put in a lethargic first half display then surrendered a 14-21 lead, conceding a last minute converted try.
Ulster's rejunenated team blasted past a respectful Bath team to win their first game in England, with three trys and some fantastic rugby. Although 4 trys and a bonus point were needed at the outset, Ulster were unlikely to get above Stade Francais at the top of Group 4. Nevertheless, they showed real grit and determination, Andrew Trimble making a stunning run from inside his own half to score the 1st try. Further fine efforts by SimonDanielli to release Darren Cave, and Paddy Wallace's insightful drive culminated in 2 more trys before the end. The second half was scrappy. Ulster couldn't get out of their own half as 14 man Bath applied plenty of pressure, However, they didn't have it all their own way, as Ulster battled through to the final whistle, showing how this young side have grown under Brian MacLaughlin's tuteledge.
Brian MacLauglin has named his team to take on Bath this Saturday in the return European fixture at the Recreation Ground. One significant change has been made, with Niall O'Connor starting instead of Ian Humphreys is in the replacements. lets hope he has a cunning plan in mind, as Bath have named a full-strength side for this important encounter. Ulster: Replacements
Darren Cave got Ulster's fightback against Edinburgh in the European Cup back on track as the Men in White stayed ahead to gain a precious 4 points. An extremely windy Ravenhill proved a tough proposition, as the cross-wind meant that both teams had to play with the ball in hand. Ulster were against the gales in the 1st half, and Edinburgh failed to capitulate. Issac Boss was outstanding throughout, commanding the direction and run of play. It was his incisive running that lead to the 1st try by Darren Cave. LAter he scored the 2nd Ulster try to take the result beyond any doubt, and Ulster still in with a chance at qualification.
Ulster are determined that the Edinburgh game will go-ahead. Plans have been taken to get the Ravenhill pitch perfect for Friday's important clash. However, even if the game is called off,alternative provision is being considered at Croke Park, in a possible double-header with the Leinster match.
Ulster v Ospreys - Cancelled! from UR http://www.ulsterrugby.com/11197.php
4 points and a win for Ulster as they closed Munster out in the end. A hard fought game, exhausted players in cold weather, but Ulster managed to do what they set out to.. Many changes were made, Ulster continuity was lacking, but despite Munster pressure at the breakdown, Ulster font five were excellent, their scrum dominant, and Ulster backs exciting when they attacked. Trimble and Court on the homour roll for MOTM Roll on Ospreys next week. Game on! Despite the cold conditions, a final pitch inspection has passed the pitch as playable. Ulster v Munster KO 6pm
Ulster put in a performance worthy of winners tonihgt,but stymied by the ref and some individual errors, they didn't manage to break the Leinster line. Several good attempts though and lots of positives to take from the game. Good performances, from Smith at FB,Humphreys when he came on, and strong running / stamina for the full 80 minutes by the whole team. Darren Cave went off injured early in the 1st, and Nagusa and Humph picked up a couple of knocks.
Highights Munster v Ulster from Setanta
Highights of 1st half Ulster v Leinster from Setanta
Highights of Edinburgh v Ulster from SKY
Highights of Ulster v Bath from SKY
Highights of Ulster v Scarlets from BBC
The return trip worked in stade's favour, as Ulster were forced to travel to Paris to play in atrociaous conditions when the Brussels game was postponed. Ulster fans were stranded all over the country, in Belgium, France and england as the adverse weather conditions prevented travel. A small number of supporters finally made it to the game, only to watch their team lose to a fired up home team, who made sure that they stayed in pole position in Group 4. Unfortunately, the result was marred by the outrageous behaviour and actions by Stade officials who asaulted the photographer of the Attoub gouge incident. Stade have showed how badly they have taken the disciplinary of their players, and in perhaps a roundabout way, demonstrates the lack of respect the French Rugby authorities have for other nation's and teams they play against. Game On!! The game against Stade Francais has been re schuduled to Sunday afternoon in Paris at the home of Stade Francais, Stade Jean Bouin, starting from 15:00. Tickets from the Brussels game are still vaild, but according to SKY, tickets are available to purchase on the day at the gate. Match Postponed! The game against Stade Francais has been postponed as the pitch is frozen. Disappointed Fans who had made the hard journey, now have to weather it out in Brussels or whevever they landed during this wintry weekend. The game must go on though, and Stade will feel the brunt of the postponment as they will have to find a way to fit it in during a condensed Christmas calendar. Eurostar breaks down stranding thousands The 'cold weather' has caused 5 trains in total to break down in the Channel Tunnel. 2,000 passengers including were stuck overnight in the tunnel and at either terminals. Many Ulster fans have decided to cancel their trips and find an alternate venue to watch the game. Team for Stade named
BJ Botha and Paddy Wallace return from injury, the springbok to the scrum as PW starts as captain. Willie Faloon replaces David Pollock as open side flanker; and Fitzpatrick and Pollock start the game on the bench. Timoci Nagusa, replaces Andrew Trimble on the wing as Trimble moves to centre. Ulster: (1-8) Tom Court, Nigel Brady, BJ Botha, Ed O’Donoghue, Dan Tuohy, Stephen Ferris, Willie Faloon, Chris Henry. Stade Français: 15 Hugo Southwell, 14 Julien Arias, 13 Mathieu Bastareaud, 12 Guillaume Bousses, 11 Mark Gasnier, 10 Lionel Beauxis, 9 Noel Oelschig, 8 Juan Leguizamon, 7 Pierre Rabadan, 6 Mauro Bergamasco, 5 Pascal Pape, 4 Tom Palmer, 3 Sylvain Marconnet, 2 Dimitri Szarzewski, 1 Rodrigo Roncero. Referee: Chris White (Eng)
A Glorious win for Ulster (again) over one of the best teams in Euope, helped Ulster stay at the top of the table, only behind on points difference. Stade came to Ravenhill expecting a win, but the 16th man proved too much to bear,and a serious lack of discipline, countered by sparkling Ulster play, and a winning mentality made sure that the Frenchmen were sent packing. Ulster were sublime, and played as team throughout the full eighty minutes. Ian Humphreys had another stormer, as did Henry, ferris and Danielli. 2 tries by Brady and danielli followed scintillating running, and every one of the players stood up to be counted. There can be no doubt who the kings on the night were. A shameful incident by the French No 9 - Dupuy was caught on television cameras, as Ferris had his face clawed, but the big man held his discipline. Needless to say, Stade did not get the bonus point, and the Ulstermen can be very proud of their performance. Roll on Brussels, and the return game. Ulster will have to keep the same pressure as they did this week. It's obvious, the french don't like it up 'em.
Ulster couldn't weather the Storm Ulster lost for the 2nd time at Ravenhill this year. Having taken the lead in the first half hour, Ulster didnt play the elements, and gave away far too many silly penalties, Dan Parks making sure he punished them for all indiscretions.A change for Nagusa during the early stage meant that Marshall came on for Boss who moved to full-back for Schifcofske who took Timoci's place on the wing. The experiment didnt work, although it was interesting to watch. Ulster didnt actually score in the 2nd half, although they once hammered the Glasgow line, but were unable to finish them off. Ulster team named
Ulster Rugby Head Coach Brian McLaughlin has named his starting 15, plus subs, for Friday's match against Glasgow Warriors. Tom Court, Timoci Nagusa and Simon Danielli, all return to the starting XV. Ian Whitten and Darren Cave in the centre, while
Chris Henry will captain the team.
Ravens win away... Ulster gained a bonus-point win over Mosely at Billsley Common. 4 tries by Neil McComb, Dan Tuohy, Tommy Seymour and Adam Macklin. Niall O'Connor made 3 conversions and kicked 2 penalties to earn a convincing win over the National 1 champions. Ulster's defence throughout the game was good, but following a fierce fightback Moseley scored twice in the last twenty minutes with a try in the corner and a penalty try.
A new rugby competition got underway this week-end though you would hardly know it from the lack of publicity that surrounded it. Twelve teams from the English National Division 1 were joined by six Welsh Premiership clubs, three Scottish teams and the A teams from Ulster, Munster and Leinster. Scheduled to take place during the Autumn internationals and the 6 nations this was billed as an opportunity for the youngsters breaking through to the provincial teams to stake their claims while the big boys were off with the international teams.
Ulster mashed by Munster In one of the best games this season so far, Ulster suffered from a Munster backlash, and were beaten by a better side. Ulster tried hard, but Munster outplayed them, and once again Ulster were dogged by individual errors. Munster threw the sink at Ulster, but despite their intensiveness, Ulster defended well, and showed why they were still near the top of the Magners League table. A great game! Full of passion, excitement, and drama, this was a game to take a lot of positives from.
Ulster beat the Champions Ulster proved that Fortress Ravenhill is still a stadium to fear. Brilliant, noisy and aggressive Ulster support roared on a young Ulster side to a magnificent win against the Euorpean Champions. Superb defence kept out leinster as they applied sustained pressure throughout the 2nd half. Ulster however, showed great determination, the pack proved their worth against a giant Leinster team, and the Ulster backs proved equal and more against the stars of Leinster. BOD and Darcy, no matter how hard they tried, could not break down the Ulstermen, and Ian Humphreys once again led by example. His kicking was once again sublime, and he controlled the scoreline, making some hard penalties, although overall was only on 65%. Like Fitzgerald managed a late try to help Leinster get a bonus point, but it was too little too late, as Ulster won a significant victory over the league leaders. Ulster: 2nd best again Ulster started very strongly, against a determined Edinburgh side. Their defeat last week inspired them to a strong display. Despite this, Ulster weere by far the better side during the first half. Brilliant play by the forwards, rewarded the Ulster backs with go-forward ball, and Ian Humphreys kicking pinned the Edinburgh side back again and again. Timoci Nagusa scored a wonderful opportunistic try as he weaved in and out through the edinburgh defenders, his burst of speed, too much to cope with. The Ulster lineout was excellent, and Andy Kyriacou showed why he is currently in the starting lineup. The second half was a different matter. Ulster failed to score, and Edinburgh came out the more determined side. Ulster's slide seemed to start when Ian Humphreys missed a penalty in front of the posts. after that, and some harsh referee decisions, meant that Edinburgh took the lead, and they held onto it, denying ball to Ulster who didn't really get out of their own half.
Bath were flooded by Ulster tonight, as the home side produced al the excitement at a very wet Ravenhill. 2 trys to nil set Ulster up as a team to be reckoned with. Edinburgh and Stade watch out! The Ulstermen are on fire! Timoci Nagusa and Willie Faloon crossed the whitewash, and the Ulster defense complete a treble of no scores against. Roll on Edinburgh! Ulster:
Ospreys v Ulster end credits from Setanta
Watch the Dragons v Ulster highlights from BBCW
Watch the Ulster highlights from the BBC
Watch URTV on YouTube. Ulster Fixtures announced!
Ulster's Magners League fixtures have been announced. Some problems still exist with the league fixture format, and Ulster have a tough start with away games against The Dragons and The Ospreys, before their first home match at Ravenhill against Scottish rivals, Edinburgh. This year's Christmas fixture, again against Leinster is at the RDS in Dublin.
Ulster Head Coach Brian McLaughlin has named a virtually unchanged line-up, from the starting XV who won at Ravenhill last weekend The only change sees Andy Kyriacou starting at No2, with Nigel Brady moving to the bench.. Bath:
The build up begins Coming off the back of two good wins and ten points in the Magners League, taking the Ulstermen up to 2nd in the league table, we host Bath at Fortress Ravenhill this weekend. Will Bath look forward to it? Doubtful, Will the Ulstermen stand up? Definately!, Will Ravenhill ROAR? Most assuredly! Bring it on!!! Ulster Head Coach Brian McLaughlin has named a 25 man squad ahead of Ulster's first Heineken Cup Pool game, against Bath Rugby, this Friday night at 7.30pm. ULSTER SQUAD Backs: The only place to watch the live Heineken Cup action this Friday is at Ravenhill, as the Ulster v Bath match will not be broadcast live on TV.
Ulster closed out An energetic Ulster outplayed Edinburgh in the first half at a full Ravenhill last night. The forwards were too powerful for the Scottish pack, and the running by the backs was well balanced and incisive. Ulster scored twice in the opening 15 minutes, Stephen Ferris getting the first try, Clinton Schifcofske getting the 2nd. Neither try was converted, but desite playing the better rugby throughout the game, Edinburgh clawed their way back due to several errors, Visser scoring their only try, and the boot of Paterson and Godman finishing Ulster off.
Ulster show their mettle Ulster win away in Wales for the first time in 3 years. The young players stood up to be counted against an experienced side. Taking everything the Ospreys threw at them, they repelled the O's attack again and again, winning great field posession, and scoring three trys into the bargain. Talk about entertaining rugby! Two tries by Simon Danielli and one by Dan Tuohy, were the culmination of some beautiful play by Ulster. Ian Humhreys was the stand-out MOTM, and his evasive running coupled with excellent vision, gave the delighted Ulstersupporters that made the trip something to shout about. It wasn't all easy going, and thankfully James Hook had left his kicking boots at home, but with ball in hand, Ulster's pack and backline showed great technical ability and style when going through the phases. Ulster Team: U19s win and u20s lose. The Leinster Under-20's defeated Ulster 33-20 in a high scoring encounter in the opening round of their Interprovincial campaign at a sun-kissed Donnybrook on Friday evening.
Ulster fail to impress Ulster initially looked like they were a team ready to impress us, adding to their 3 win friendlies over the summer break. But we were soon let down with a performance that smacked of the worst on offer from last season. Not to take anything away from the Dragons; who fronted up well, and played good, basic rugby. Their tackling and defense was ferocious as was their play at the breakdown. Newport controlled the possession of the game, and looked dangerous everytime thay had the ball and went on the run. Scoring 3 tries to nil, they were worthy winners, and showed a determination and couage that Ulster lacked. Once again, the 10-12 channel was lacking. Place kicking was poor, and the forwards showed they need to work harder both in the scrum and the loose. BJ Botha being notable for being sent off after being warned for dropping his side of the scrum repeatedly. Ulster: Referee: Carlo Damasco (FIR, 5th League game).
Ulster announce 1st team of the season Ulster Head Coach Brian McLaughlin has named the side for Ulster's opening game of the MagnersLeague season against Newport Gwent Dragons Ulster: Referee: Carlo Damasco (FIR, 5th League game). Travelling to the game? Check out our guide to Newport Gwent Dragons
Ulster make it 3 out of 3 Ulster completed their pre-season friendly series with an impressive 25-3 away win over Worcester Warriors at Sixways Stadium. Ian Whitten scored an early try and Ian Humphreys converted to help the visitors to a 7-3 half-time advantage. Isaac Boss and Robbie Diack added further touchdowns in the 49th and 80th minutes, with Humphreys kicking two penalties and his second conversion. Ulster beat Newcastle Falcons and Viadana at Ravenhill in their first two pre-season friendlies. Brian McLaughlin's side open their Magners League campaign with an away game against the Dragons on Sunday 6 September. Ulster: B Cunningham; T Nagusa, A Trimble, I Whitten, N Spence; I Humphreys, I Boss; B Young, A Kyriacou, BJ Botha; D Tuohy, R Caldwell; C Henry, W Faloon, R Diack. Replacements: N Brady, T Court, D Fitzpatrick, E O'Donoghue, TJ Anderson, I Porter, N O'Connor.
Ulster make it an exhibition match Despite the boot of Niall O'Connor being on the wrong foot, Ulster scored 9 yes, 9 tries to 1 from Viadana. it was a one-sided affair, but for all that, Ulster's team with 13 changes gave the chance to a lot of youngsters to prove themselves in front of new coach MacLaughlin. Timoci Nagusa opened the scoring with a try in the 8th minute, but Niall O’Connor narrowly missed the conversion. Jamie Smith soon scored againwith another Ulster try leaving the full-time score as: Ulster 53:5 Viadana Ulster
Ulster out-pace the Falcons Ulster run out the winners their first friendly game at Ravenhill tonight. Initially, running out to a wet pitch, The Newcastle Falccons made the first score, with a try in the first 20minutes by flanker Brent Wilson, try converted by fly-half Jimmy Gopperth. This spurred Ulster on, and after some intense pressure, Clinton Schifcoske scored two penalties before the end of the first half. In the 2nd period, Ulster stole the show. Another penalty by Schifcosk, followed by a try by Tuohy - conversion missed, then Cave crossing to make the final score 19 - 7. Darren Cave was taken off injured before the final whistle. Ulster Replacements (16-22)
Team Announced for Falcons Isaac Boss will captain Ulster this Friday when they take on Guinness Premiership side the Newcastle Falcons in the 1st pre-season friendly
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BJ Botha and Bryan Young start either side of new signing Andy Kyriacou at hooker. Dan Tuohy makes his first startalongside Ryan Caldwell in the second row. Chris Henry, Willie Faloon and Robbie Diack make up the back row. Isaac Boss at scrum half has Ian Humphreys at out-half which Ian Whitten and Darren Cave as the centre pair, Simon Danielli, Clinton Schifcoske and Bryn Cunningham completing the backs. Neil McComb and Nevin Spence, both training wih the Ulster Squad this summer are named on the bench. Ulster Replacements (16-22) Newcastle Falcons
Rory Best out for the Season Ulster Rugby are on a worldwide search for a replacement hooker, as Rory Best is out before the 09/10 season has even started. Following recent ongoing pain and subsequent medical investigation, it has been discovered that Rory is suffering from an underlying, chronic disc injury on his neck. Doctors have said there was no alternative — surgery and a lengthy period of recuperation of between 9 and 12 months. Consequently the Ulster Captain will miss the 09-10 season. With only a week to go before the first of Ulster's three friendlies, Ulster Rugby have to find a quality replacement for Rory.
Ulster lose to Aviron Bayonnais 17 - 10 In a game played in atrocious conditions, Ulster weathered the storm. Despite an early lead by Bayonne, Ulster were kept in the game by the boot of Niall O'Connor. Bayonne led the 1st half 14-3. Bayonne played their 1st team in the 2nd half, but couldn't beat Ulster's young team's defense, Bayonne opened their account in this period with another penalty however Ulster ended the match with a try on 79 minutes from Robbie Diack, scoring off the back of the scrum, NOC made the conversion, and Ulster can rightly hold their heads high.
And it's ... Mac As mentioned on the UAFC last week, the BBC have confirmed that Ulster's new Head Coach will be Brian McLaughlin, former PE teacher and recently during Eddie O' Sullivans reign as Ireland skills coach... McLaughlin was Ireland skills coach during Eddie O'Sullivan's reign The dogs are barking... The dogs in the street have been up all night howlig that Richard Hill, lately of Bristol, is the new Director of rugby at Ulster. Reports (from the BeleTele) say that Hill just has to finalise some details to his contract will become the coach in the next couple of days. The dogs reckon it will be announced mid-week! The article states; "A salary has been agreed, as have almost all the terms and conditions of his contract. The only issues remaining are finalisation of bonus payment in the event of a successful Heineken European Cup run, and ratification of his appointment by the IRFU, the latter a rubber-stamping exercise." It goes on to say, "Both principal parties are happy; members of the Ravenhill hierarchy see Hill as being capable of moving things forward on the pitch and he wants the job. Agreement is tantalisingly close, with Hill said to be “poised to sign”. With no-one else in the frame at this stage and no resistance from either side, the way was clear for completion of the deal within days." Matt Williams quits as Ulster coach In a dramatic turn of events, Matt Williams has left Ulster to return home to Australia. In an earlier disclosure by Les Kiss in the Ruggamatrix podcast, it was revealed that Williams had decide to pack his bags and leave Ulster. Williams said, “I have a young family in Sydney and upon my return to the province it has become clear that I need to give them more of my time,” said Williams, who left Ulster Rugby by mutual consent. Current suggestions abound that his replacement may be Connacht coach Michael Bradley. Other names in the mix are Jeremy Davidson, and Ballynahinch’s own Brian McLaughlin. 1F is Player of the Season
The URSC Player of the Season Award sponsored by McNeillys Jewellers, Lombard Street, Belfast, was presented to Stephen 1F Ferris at the Ramada Hotel last night (14th May).
The award was presented by URSC President Jack Kyle and Alan Ferris (McNeillys), with URSC Chairman Iain Campbell looking on. After his return from South Africa with the Lions, arrangements will be made with McNeillys for Stephen to also presented with a Frederique Constant watch as a keepsake of his award.
Extensions and Signatures
 Talking about Ulster Rugby's new signing, Ulster Head Coach Matt Williams remarked: "Dan is an impressive young Irish qualified player. He has come through a strong academy system in the Guinness Premiership, and been constantly a first-rate player. He has been on Ulster's radar for a while now, and I am delighted we have finally signed him up." Ulster Rugby has also extended winger Simon Danielli's contract by one year until 2010, and prop Bryan Young gained a two year extension, which will see him play his rugby with Ulster until 2011. The Spirit of '99 - Ten years to the day! It's been ten years to the day since Ulster’s 1999 European Cup win, and it still seems like yesterday to many of the fans who were there. The whole of Ireland were behind the team on that magical day, emotions were high and everyone knew that something special was going to happen. Politicians from all sides were there, and the team received a message from the then PM Tony Blair. Yes, it was a grand day out!
Take a look at our special reminder of the final, and watch the videos, see the news reports and read the memories of the first win for an Irish side of the European Cup. Newspaper reports (in Word format)
What's happened to Ireland? It's the slow season, so what better way to tide ourselves over than to look forward to the 6 Nations? See what the archipelago has to say, as he picks what he thinks is the Ireland team for the forthcoming premier northern hemisphere international tournament.
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