Ulster Rugby v Benetton Rugby

over the next 3 to 5 weeks, so we have looked at some combination changes in the centres. Stuart McCloskey will not be available following his time with Ireland. In the back three, Craig Gilroy has recently returned but we’re a lot better served in terms of injuries in the back three. So, all in all, it has resulted in some changes for sure.” For the fans, what can we expect to see from the Ulstermen on Friday night? “The players don’t hide the fact that it means a lot to them to perform well at Kingspan Stadium for their great supporters. We expect a fierce battle tonight, Treviso aren’t an easy team

to get on top of early. “We need to match the intensity and physicality that Treviso will bring and play with discipline

to best manage the strong kicking game by Treviso. We like to attack the game and have a go at the opposition and the boys will certainly be up for it.”

We’re two games into the Irish series and Ulster players have featured quite prominently. How do you think this international experience will benefit the Ulster squad when the boys return? “You always gain experience when you work up another level. Jacob Stockdale is a player who’s been growing slowly but surely. Last season we managed him well and he’s now got the benefit of a call up for the November series after a summer tour. He’ll definitely become better because of that experience. “I thought the fact that Rob Herring got called back in is testament to how he’s really come along this year. He’s had to step up more regularly as Rory has been out for most of the season and I think he got his reward for playing strongly and consistently. Stuart McCloskey has been immense for us throughout the year and, again, the more you’re exposed to that level the better you become. Obviously Kieran Treadwell hasn’t had as much time but he has strong qualities and will learn well from being in the training camp. “It all helps and it’s great for them to get that experience but it only matters if you come back here and you perform and show that improvement here at Ulster and that’s what they’ll be driven for and I know that they will do that for us.”

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