Ulster Rugby vs Cheetahs

OFFICIAL MATCH DAY PROGRAMME £3 ULSTER SAT 22 FEB 2020, 7.35PM KINGSPAN STADIUM vTOYOTA CHEETAHS

FREE SPACE TO INCLUDE: • VISUAL CREATIVE • GUINNESS PRO14 TITLE TYPE AND FIXTURE • DATE & LOCATION

Welcome back to Kingspan Stadium, the home of Ulster Rugby, where this evening Ulster will face off against the Cheetahs in round 12 of the Guinness Pro14. Following a narrow defeat for the Ulstermen against Ospreys last weekend, they will now look to bounce back to winning ways. Cheetahs will also be focused on securing a victory after losing out last weekend to a strong Leinster side. With both teams battling it out for a win, we look forward to an entertaining encounter between the two sides, guaranteeing a rousing atmosphere in Kingspan Stadium. The Ulster faithful are known for providing a warm welcome and I am sure the Cheetahs squad and their travelling supporters will experience nothing less from their visit. Tonight, is also a special night for our Kingspan mascot competition winner, Theo Russell. We wish him all the best in leading out the Ulster team this evening. Finally, on behalf of Kingspan, I would like to wish the Ulster Rugby Squad and management team the very best of luck. To Ulster’s committed fans, enjoy the game, lead the way and help ensure that this is an evening to remember at Kingspan Stadium.

ISSUE INTHIS

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14

Tonight's Mascots

2

President’s Welcome

3

Interview: Alan O'Connor

8

Player Focus: Jordi Murphy

13

Interview: Louis Ludik

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Six Nations Update

16

Academy Squad

19

Club Rugby Survey

21

Last Time Out

26

Ulster Profiles

28

16

Ulster Team

32

Toyota Cheetahs Team

33

Toyota Cheetahs Profiles

34

Match Statistics

39

Toyota Cheetahs: Three To Watch

41

Tackle your Feelings

44

Referees Q&A: Ian Orr

49

Half-Time Rugby Teams

57

Stadium Information

58

Competition Standings

62

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TONIGHT'S MASCOTS

JONATHAN PARR (9) FROM NEWTOWNABBEY

THEO RUSSELL (10) FROM BALLYMENA

Jonathan attends Whiteabbey Primary School and plays mini rugby for Belfast High School Old Boys, he also enjoys playing cricket. His favourite player is Jacob Stockdale as he plays on the wing and is fast, just like Jonathan. When Jonathan gets older he would like to play for Ulster.

Theo attends Carnmoney Primary School and plays mini rugby for Ballyclare RFC. In his spare time he loves running and drawing. His favourite Ulster player is Jacob Stockdale as he likes his hair and how fast he runs. When Theo gets older he would like be either an Ulster player or an artist.

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PRESIDENT'S WELCOME

It is great to be back at Kingspan Stadium after a five week gap, for what is our twelfth game in the Guinness PRO14 championship this season, and what will hopefully be part of a memorable weekend for both Ulster and Ireland. Tonight’s game has significant potential ramifications for the race to the PRO14 playoffs with Ulster currently sitting second in Conference A, just six points ahead of the Cheetahs in third. Both teams will also be keen to get back to winning ways after experiencing defeat on the road last weekend; Ulster at Ospreys and Cheetahs at Leinster. It is not often that we get the opportunity to welcome a club legend, who has contributed so much to Ulster, back as an opposition player to Kingspan Stadium. I am sure the home crowd will give Ruan Pienaar a fitting welcome, but I am equally sure that Dan and the Ulster team will be fully focused on reversing the defeat inflicted by Pienaar and co in Bloemfontein back in October. This is my first chance to formally congratulate the two Rob’s, Iain, Jack, Tom, John, Billy, Will and Stuart on their selection for the extended Ireland Six Nations squad. In particular, congratulations to Iain Henderson, Rob Herring, Jacob Stockdale and John Cooney on their inclusion in each of the match-day squads to date. I also want to congratulate David McCann on his selection as captain of the Ireland U20s for their Six Nations campaign. There is a fantastic Ulster representation on this squad, with no less than eight Abbey Insurance Ulster Academy / Sub-Academy players included. Finally, I would like to congratulate Kathyrn Dane on her selection for the Irish Women’s team who, at the time of writing, have won both of their opening championship games with Kathryn starting at scrum-half. On the domestic front all the club competitions are well under way and thankfully have been reasonably unaffected by the poor weather in recent weeks. All the cup competitions are approaching the latter stages and I wish all teams involved over the next few weeks all the best. To the visiting Toyota Cheetahs officers, management and playing squad, I hope you have an enjoyable, but not successful trip to Belfast. To the Ulster supporters – lets continue to make Kingspan Stadium a fortress and cheer the Ulster men on towards another crucial victory! SUFTUM! Gary Leslie President, IRFU Ulster Branch On behalf of Ulster Rugby, I would like to welcome everyone to Kingspan Stadium for this evening’s Guinness PRO14 fixture versus the Toyota Cheetahs.

IRFU ULSTER BRANCH 2019/20 OFFICERS Gary Leslie President Philip Gregg Senior Vice President Denis Gardiner Junior Vice President & Honorary Secretary Michael Boyd Honorary Treasurer Greg Irwin Competitions Secretary Jonny Petrie Chief Executive Officer

Kingspan Stadium, 134 Mount Merrion Avenue Belfast, BT6 0FT T +44 (0)28 9049 3222 ulsterrugby.com

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Life is bigger than the game and this week it is my sad duty to pay tribute to a man who made the game his life and rugby is all the better for it. Last Friday night, former Munster CEO Garrett Fitzgerald passed and was laid to rest in his native Cork earlier this week. His loss to the rugby community in Munster is immeasurable, but the legacy of his work stands tall. Garrett spent two decades in the position of CEO for Munster Rugby and holds the distinction of having previously coached the province, most notably in their win over World Champions Australia in 1992. The major achievements of his time as CEO are the redevelopment of the iconic Thomond Park stadium, which was reborn in 2008, and the world-class High Performance centre in the University of Limerick where Munster are now based.

Everyone within the game is acutely aware of the impact Garrett had with everyone in the Munster organisation – he was a man who had as much time for match-day volunteers and mini rugby co- ordinators as he had for Paul O’Connell or Ronan O’Gara. Garrett was a devoted Munster man but obviously his work within the IRFU helped to make an impact on the wider game and he was a keen supporter of our tournament from the very beginning. He is survived by his wife Áine, daughter Megan, sons Jamie and Michael, his brother Roger and his sisters Nicki, Mary and Rose. We wish our friends in Munster great strength as they absorb this loss. This weekend Munster will play in Italy against Zebre and Garrett would have admired the background in which the game will take place. Zebre have moved the game to be the headline act of Milano Rugby week which will host the Italian Under 20 and Women’s Six Nations games with Scotland – it is an initiative aimed at spreading the gospel of the game in Italy. Elsewhere, Ruan Pienaar will make an emotional return to Kingspan Stadium as his Toyota Cheetahs team face into a crucial Conference A clash with Ulster. Edinburgh and Connacht meet in a game vital for both teams’ Play-Off hopes while Cardiff Blues and Benetton is must-win for both sides in Conference B. Leinster can also set a new record should they record a win over Ospreys with the most to start a season. They have equalled the previous total of 11 set by Ulster and should they achieve the feat this weekend they will also equal the longest winning streak of 14 wins set by Munster. The Guinness Six Nations returns this weekend, but I’m pleased to say that we still managed to field 104 internationally capped players in Round 11 and with an appealing fixture this weekend we’ll prove that there is plenty of quality on offer. I’d also like to congratulate the seven Guinness PRO14 players who recently won their first Test caps in the Six Nations: Nick Haining (Edinburgh), Johnny McNicholl (Scarlets), Caelan Doris, Ronán Kelleher, Max Deegan (Leinster), Niccolo Cannone (Benetton) & Danilo Fischetti (Zebre). More proof of how the Next Generation of international talent is always emerging in our Championship. Don’t forget, while the cold might be biting now you can guarantee your place to one of summer rugby’s biggest events at the Guinness PRO14 Final in Cardiff on June 20. Last year saw yet another record attendance in Glasgow, but with limited availability in 2020 be sure to visit www.pro14rugby.org/ final and get booking. Enjoy the game, Martin Anayi Chief Executive Officer

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As Ulster prepare to take on the Toyota Cheetahs, we spoke to Alan O’Connor on why the second row is demanding a positive response from the squad against the South African team this weekend. ALAN O’CONNOR

“We were pleased with our lineout drills and our bench did really well when they came on. We needed a lift and all the guys who came on in the second half injected some energy into our game. The way we came back from 13 points down in tough conditions was really encouraging. “We held onto the ball well in phases, but we just have to be more clinical when we get those chances. Not just chances to score, but chances to defend a lineout maul on our 5-metre line and step up in those big moments.” Ulster and O’Connor will be keen to seek revenge against the Toyota Cheetahs on Saturday, having been defeated by the South African side in Bloemfontein earlier in the season. “The Cheetahs are a really good attacking side and play a great brand of rugby. Being South African, they’re big and have a solid set piece. They have threats all over the pitch. We will do our previews and pick up on their key threats. We know what Ruan Pienaar is like in moving the ball quickly, so we have to make sure he doesn’t get his game going to get the Cheetahs’ game going.”

It was a disappointing result for Ulster last weekend, having taken the lead with ten minutes to go, only for the Ospreys to snatch a two-point win with a 75th minute penalty proving decisive. Alan O’Connor - who captained the Ulster side at Liberty Stadium – felt they gave themselves too big a hill to climb after the break. “We conceded two maul tries which is nowhere near where we want to be, and our decision-making could have been better. We gave ourselves too much to do in the second half. “We know we have to face the music and take the result from the Ospreys game on the chin and build from there. We’ve reviewed the game and the boys are looking forward to getting back out on the pitch and working on fixes.” There were positives to take from the game; Marcell Coetzee made 23 carries – more than any other player in Round 11 of the Guinness PRO14. O’Connor was also heartened by the team’s resilience to fight back in the second half, as well as the boost given by their replacements.

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In the October fixture, Toyota Cheetahs proved to be disruptive in the lineout, making four steals. This is an area of emphasis for O’Connor and the Ulster pack this week. “For us to apply pressure and play our game, we need the ball and the lineout is one of the key areas of the game. They have the most lineout steals in the Guinness PRO14 so they’re a serious threat there and we will have to be ready for them and get our set piece right.” This will be the first game Ruan Pienaar will be involved in an opposing match day team at Kingspan Stadium since leaving Ulster in 2017, and although he is held in high regard, there will be no room for sentiment when Ulster and Toyota Cheetahs take to the field on Saturday evening, which the 27-year- old is keen to stress. “I hope the supporters agree and don’t give him too much confidence by cheering him on a lot! But it will be great to see him after the game, and for him to spend some time in Belfast.”

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LAST TIME OUT OSPREYSvULSTER

Ulster left the Liberty Stadium last Saturday with a losing bonus point against Ospreys, despite leading with five minutes remaining. Dan McFarland’s side had rallied from 23-10 down to lead by a point, but Luke Price’s penalty settled an exciting encounter, played in challenging conditions. Ospreys took the lead on five minutes via a Price penalty, as Ulster were penalised for offside. Ulster hit back four minutes later with the game’s opening try. Robert Baloucoune kept the ball alive cutting in from the touch line. Shanahan fed Stuart McCloskey who broke through three Ospreys tacklers before offloading to Baloucoune to dot down, and out-half Billy Burns added the difficult conversion. Ulster were turned over and punished on fifteen minutes when Owen Watkin used the wet pitch to slide under the posts for a try, following probing carries by Olly Cracknell and Kieran Williams. Price added the extras. The Welsh region got their second try in the 25th minute, created from a kicked penalty to touch. Ulster stopped the initial drive, but Ospreys got momentum from a second surge to propel hooker, Scott Otten, over for an unconverted try. Luke Price extended the Ospreys lead with a penalty in front of the posts four minutes later. Burns reduced the Ospreys half-time lead to 18- 10 with a penalty four minutes before the interval after the home side infringed in front of their own posts. HALF-TIME SCORE: OSPREYS 18 - 10 ULSTER

Otten got his second try seven minutes after the restart. Ulster were guilty of collapsing a maul close to their own line and Ospreys went to the corner. From the lineout, Ulster stopped the first drive but the Ospreys powered over with the hooker touching down. Full-back, Matt Faddes gave Ulster a lifeline with a try on 59 minutes. Ulster kicked a penalty to touch from the lineout and worked the ball through 16 phases to create an overlap before spinning it wide and the Kiwi had an easy run-in, with Bill Johnson adding the conversion. Ulster got their third try on 67 minutes. Ospreys had a five-metre defensive line out, but David O’Connor did well to force a turnover. From the scrum, Ulster worked the ball across the pitch through 11 phases. Bill Johnson spotted space on the left wing and put in a perfectly-weighted cross-field kick for McCloskey to catch and go over unopposed from close range. Johnson landed the conversion from a tight angle to give Ulster a one-point lead. Price’s long-range penalty after Shanahan was penalised for playing the ball off his feet put Ospreys back in front with five minutes remaining. In the final play, Johnson had a chance to snatch victory with the clock in the red zone but his drop goal attempt was charged down. FULL-TIME SCORE: OSPREYS 26 - 24 ULSTER

PLAYER FOCUS

JORDI

MURPHY

1.88m

105kg

22 April 1991, Barcelona

Jordi Murphy joined Ulster from his home Province of Leinster in the summer of 2018. Murphy has represented Ireland at U18, U19, U20 and senior level, and was a key member of the Six Nations winning teams of 2014, 2015 and 2018. He was also part of Ireland’s 2015 and 2019 World Cup squads.

SO FAR THIS SEASON

CARRIES 50

METRES 77

TRIES 1

TACKLES 75

LOUIS LUDIK

We caught up with the South African winger following his return against Ospreys, and to discuss the prospect of playing against his old team-mate and good friend, Ruan Pienaar.

Putting aside the friendly rivalries between the two countrymen, Ludik is well aware of Pienaar’s quality and the danger posed by the Cheetahs, having been defeated by them in October. “He’s a world-class player so we have to watch him, especially if the weather is bad again with rain and wind. Ruan knows how to play those conditions and his kicking game is so dangerous. The Cheetahs pose a serious threat but I’m really looking forward to playing against him.” Ulster are currently placed second in Conference A with 37 points. Leaders, Leinster are fifteen points ahead on 52 and Toyota Cheetahs are in third place, six points behind Ulster on 31. Commenting on Ulster’s position, the South African is focused on getting back to winning ways and putting some extra breathing space between Ulster and the Cheetahs. “Leinster are playing really good rugby but for us it’s just important to get our momentum back. The team has a lot of confidence and, although there was a mishap at the weekend, we’re training really well and need to kick on. “Cheetahs are third at the moment and we need to stretch that gap between them and us and give ourselves a buffer this season going forward. We want to get into the play-offs and once you reach that stage, you want momentum behind you and to feel confident.”

Although it wasn’t the result he was hoping for in Swansea against the Ospreys last Saturday, Louis Ludik was pleased to return to playing after a spell on the sidelines with injury. “It’s great to be back out on the field. It’s always tough when the guys are out there doing so well; you just want to be helping them and enjoying it. I’ve had my fair share of injuries and hopefully they are over and done with!” The 33-year-old knew early in the season that there would be a possibility of former Ulster team-mate, Ruan Pienaar, returning to Belfast but heading to the away changing rooms this time. “When I saw that we were going to play the Toyota Cheetahs at Kingspan Stadium, I thought it was going to be a really interesting game,” he said. “It will be great for Ruan to see the Ulster crowd and I’m sure he will get a great reception but once you step onto the pitch, it’s not that friendly anymore as you want to beat the opposition. “I was on the bench when we played the Cheetahs earlier in the season in Bloemfontein. He went off before I came on so I haven’t played against him in quite a while. It’s always good when you’ve played with someone for a long time and then you play against them. It’s fun to find them at the bottom of a ruck and have that competitive edge with them!”

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SIXNATIONSRUGBY IRELANDTEAMS TWOFROMTWO

line for Ireland to take the full five points. Scotland didn’t leave empty-handed as they got the try bonus point through a late Cameron Scott score. It was another notable fly-half display for the senior team the next day at the Aviva Stadium, with Johnny Sexton leading form the front in his first home game as captain by scoring all of Ireland’s 19 points to narrowly defeat a tough Scotland side 19-12. Ulster’s Rob Herring made his first Six Nations start in this game, and was joined by Iain Henderson and Jacob Stockdale, with John Cooney on the bench. The visitors were much-improved from their World Cup campaign in October, testing the Irish defence throughout but unable to cross. The closest Scotland got was through Stuart Hogg, who thought he was in for a try but his opportunity went wasted as he knocked on just as he was about to score. Johnny Sexton scored the only try of what was a very physical game and kicked four penalties and one conversion to give Andy Farrell his first victory as Head Coach.

Ireland’s Six Nations campaign is in rude health as we head into Round 3 of the tournament, with the U20s, women’s and men's teams all winning their opening two games against Scotland and Wales. In the opening weekend, Ireland U20s kicked off the defence of their Six Nations title at Irish Independent Park versus Scotland. Ulster Academy back row, David McCann captained the side which also included an Ulster contingent of Ethan McIlroy, Hayden Hyde, Lewis Finlay and Tom Stewart. Ireland ran in six tries in a bonus-point 38-26 victory over the visitors. Fly-half, Jack Crowley contributed 18 points through two tries and four conversions. Thomas Clarkson, Andrew Smith, Thomas Ahern and John McKee all crossed the

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The women’s fixture on Sunday 2nd February was an equally tight affair, with the Irish team emerging 18-14 winners. Ulster’s Kathryn Dane was selected to start at scrum-half. 18-year-old winger, Beibhinn Parsons pounced to intercept a Scottish attack and ran almost the length of the field to score what was the decisive try in their victory. Ireland surged to go 13-0 up in the opening fifteen minutes through an Ellen Murphy penalty and scores from Cliodhna Moloney and Sene Naoupu, but Scotland fought back with a converted score of their own, and were pushing hard again on 66 minutes but Parsons collected a loose pass from Sarah Law from just outside Irelands five-metre line to score. A late Scotland try from Emma Wassell, converted by Lana Skeldon wasn’t enough for Scotland to snatch victory, and Ireland got their campaign off to a winning start. The following Friday, it was back to Cork for the U20s to host Wales in blustery conditions with Storm Ciara taking hold. Ulster’s David McCann led the side, and was joined by his provincial teammates, Tom Stewart, Lewis Finlay and Ben Moxham. Ireland secured their second bonus-point victory over Wales in a lively encounter. It took just a minute for Ireland to cross the line as back rower charged down a Wales clearance kick and bundled over to score. Further tries from Dan Kelly, Man- of-the-Match Lewis Finlay, Mark Hernan for his second and Andrew Smith, four conversions and a penalty from Jack Crowley ensured that Ireland are still on course to win back-to-back Grand Slams. The senior team continued the winning streak for the Irish teams in an impressive bonus-point 24-14 win over last year’s Guinness Six Nations champions, Wales. Ulster retained their contingent of Rob Herring, Iain Henderson and Jacob Stockdale in the starting line-up, with John Cooney named among the replacements. Jordan Larmour, Tadhg Furlong, Josh Van der Flier and Andrew Conway all crossed over to score, plus two Johnny Sexton conversions made it two wins from two at home in the 2020 Guinness Six Nations. Wales kept themselves in the hunt, scoring two tries, but Ireland’s impressive defence and work at the breakdown ensured the win for the hosts.

Storm Ciara’s work hadn’t finished yet, as the Ireland women endured atrocious conditions in the second half at Energia Park on Sunday 9th February to beat Wales in a 31-12 bonus-point victory. Ulster’s Kathryn Dane was once again named to start at scrum-half. Beibhinn Parsons, who crossed over with an intercept try the week before, made another fantastic score in this game. Cliodhna Moloney, Lauren Delany and Linda Djougang also dotted over, securing the four-try bonus point. Claire Keohane slotted over two very difficult conversions and Ireland were awarded a penalty try in the last minute of the game to claim victory, despite the gale-force winds and heavy rain. All three Irish representative teams go into Round 3 with an unblemished run of two from two wins and have all set themselves in a great position to win the 2020 Guinness Six Nations title.

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2019/20ABBEY INSURANCE ACADEMYSQUAD

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Year 2 Scrum Half 12.09.99 176cm 84kg

Year 3 Lock 16.11.98 197cm 105kg

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BRUCE HOUSTON

IWAN HUGHES

Year 3 Back Row 22.12.98 190cm 101kg

Year 4 Back Row 26.06.98 193cm 98kg

Year 2 Fly Half 16.08.99 192cm 84kg

Year 2 Back Three 06.04.99 174cm 79kg

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Year 1 Centre 15.09.00

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Year 2 Centre 08.08.99 183cm 91kg

Year 1 Back Three 27.05.01 186cm 83kg

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Year 1 Hooker 11.01.01 182cm 97kg

197cm 108kg

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Standout Paving for Outstanding Homes

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Help us shape the future of adult rugby in Ulster, and be in with a chance to win Ulster v Leinster tickets or a signed Ulster Rugby jersey! SURVEY TAKEOUR

To take part in the survey ahead of the deadline of Friday 20 March, please visit: UlsterRugby.com/ClubSurveys

“The short online surveys, which can be completed anonymously, take about 10 minutes to do and will provide us with a detailed insight on the views of rugby players in Ulster. “Remember to share your views with us ahead of the deadline of 20th March for the chance to win some great prizes. As well as the chance to win, those that complete the survey will help us shape the future of the amateur game in Ulster to the benefit of all players.” Survey respondents will automatically be entered in a draw for the chance to win either a signed 2019/20 Ulster team jersey, or four seated tickets to Ulster v Leinster at the Kingspan Stadium at the end of May. If you play across multiple categories of the game, please select the category of game which you play most often.

As part of our commitment to developing rugby in the province, Ulster Rugby is conducting a review of adult rugby participation through a set of online surveys, which launched this week. The five surveys target adult players in Ulster across the range of playing abilities and competitions. Commissioned by the IRFU Ulster Branch Rugby Committee, the surveys are designed to capture data to better understand current player experience – and drive forward the game in line with their views. Greg Irwin, Competitions Honorary Secretary for IRFU Ulster Branch, said: “We want to hear from adult players of all ages and abilities from across Ulster. The surveys offer a great opportunity for players to make their voices heard – and we look forward to listening to what their on-the-ground experience of rugby in Ulster are.

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DANENAMED INTHISWEEKEND'S IRELANDSQUADTOFACEENGLAND

IRELAND WOMEN’S SQUAD BACKS Michelle Claffey

Adam Griggs has named a squad of 24 players ahead of the third round of the 2020 Women’s Six Nations against England on Sunday. Enniskillen native, Dane has been selected for the away fixture. Since making her debut against England in the opening round of the 2019 Championship, Dane has been ever- present in Ireland’s matchday squads. “We’ve worked so hard since the last Six Nations and even working through the autumn series there. Having that loss against Wales [last year] really gave us the kick up the ass to work hard over Christmas,” admitted Dane, speaking in the aftermath of the 18-14 win over the Scots. Taking this attitude into the next round against Wales, Ireland again secured the win with all the hard work paying off. At just 23 years of age, Dane is only getting started in the 15s international arena and she is making her mark! Ireland will arrive in Doncaster on the back of wins over both Scotland and Wales and will be aiming to continue their own quest for glory. However, it is all to play for as they are tied at the top of the table with England who also gained back to back wins in the first two rounds of the Six Nations – Sunday will prove to be a serious competition between the sides! The team to play England will be named on Friday. IRELAND UPCOMING FIXTURES IN THE WOMEN’S SIX NATIONS 2020 Sunday 23 February, 12.45pm England Women v Ireland Women Castle Park, Doncaster Sunday 8 March, 1.00pm Ireland Women v Italy Women Energia Park, Donnybrook

Blackrock/Leinster Eimear Considine Ul Bohemian/Munster Nicole Cronin Ul Bohemian/Munster Kathryn Dane Old Belvedere/Ulster Lauren Delany Firwood Waterloo/IQ Rugby Aoife Doyle Railway Union/Munster Katie Fitzhenry Blackrock/Leinster Claire Keohane Railway Union/Munster Larissa Muldoon Railway Union/Leinster Sene Naoupu Old Belvedere/Leinster Hannah Tyrrell Old Belvedere RFC/Leinster FORWARDS Judy Bobbett Blackrock/Leinster Anna Caplice Harlequins/IQ Rugby Ciara Cooney Railway Union/Leinster Victoria Dabanovich O’mahony Old Belvedere/Leinster Linda Djougang Old Belvedere/Leinster Laura Feely Blackrock/Connacht Ciara Griffin Ul Bohemian/Munster Leah Lyons Harlequins/IQ Rugby Aoife Mcdermott Railway Union/Leinster Edel Mcmahon

Wasps/IQ Rugby Cliodhna Moloney Wasps/IQ Rugby Lindsay Peat Railway Union/Leinster Dorothy Wall Railway Union/Munster

Sunday 15 March, 3.35pm (GMT) France Women v Ireland Women Le Stadium, Lille

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Dan McFarland Ulster Rugby

Nick Winkelman IRFU

Phil Glasgow IRFU

Ian McKeown Port Adelaide FC

BUILDING HIGH PERFORMANCE PROGRAMMES Inviting leaders, coaches, managers and practitioners from the world of sport and business. Join the athletic performance team at Ulster Rugby and the guest speakers to gain different perspectives in how to piece together the different components which support and drive a high-performance culture amongst staff and players. Presentations will be followed with interactive discussions amongst delegates and presenters to tackle the challenges we face in operating as a high-performance team with the day culminating in a panel discussion to answer specific questions from the audience. ATHLETICPERFORMANCE CONFERENCE2020 Monday 9 March | Kingspan Stadium

in association with

UlsterRugby.com/APConference

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STADIUMUPDATE ULSTERRUGBYMAKESMAJOR INVESTMENT INKINGSPAN STADIUMMATCHDAYEXPERIENCE

Following a substantial six-figure investment by Ulster Rugby, visitors to Kingspan Stadium will now benefit from a range of state-of-the-art facilities.

Of the investment, Ulster Rugby Chief Executive, Jonny Petrie said: “We have made a significant investment in improving the matchday experience at Kingspan Stadium because we want to make it the place to be in Belfast on match nights. “Kingspan Stadium is widely regarded as one of the finest rugby stadia in Europe, with our plans for ongoing investment in the months and years ahead demonstrating our commitment to providing a great experience, whether

The upgrades - which include new digital turnstile scanners, LED floodlights, two new High Definition big screens, the latest audio-visual technology in the A&L Goodbody Premium Lounge, along with an improved queuing system and an increased number of contactless terminals for the many on-site bars - are all designed to enhance the matchday experience for spectators at the 18,000 capacity sports arena.

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OLD LIGHTS

NEW LIGHTS

benefit from a new integrated, state-of- the-art audio-visual system installed by Ballymena-based, Absolute Technologies. To complete the upgrades, venue partner Mount Charles has introduced floor graphics, along with an increased number of contactless terminals for payment, within the seven on-site bars to improve efficient customer queuing – which has already reduced waiting times on match nights by an average of 40%.

it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned supporter.” On arrival, visitors to the stadium will be greeted by new ticket scanners at the turnstiles, which have been installed by Ulster Rugby in partnership with Ticketmaster. Set to bring the latest in digital ticketing technology to Kingspan Stadium, the machines will improve ease of use and stadium security. Working with USA company Musco Lighting and Cork-based, Sherry Electrical Ltd, the investment in four new LED floodlights will also be a noticeable difference for spectators and our various media and broadcast partners. With an increase in light intensity of almost 50% to 1200 Lux, the new lights will significantly reduce energy use and increase efficiency. The installation of two new ScannerVision ‘big screens’ brings further technological upgrades to the stadium with each 8.6m x 5m screen - used to display matchday information, club and partner content, live game footage and score updates - the equivalent in size to 90 household 42” TV screens. Visitors to the A&L Goodbody Premium Lounge, both on matchday and for in- stadium conferences and events, will

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#ONECONSTANT WWW.GILBERTRUGBY.COM

ULSTERRUGBY

EASTER CAMPS

JUNIORCAMPS Open to both boys and girls aged 6-11 (P3–P7)

GIRLS’ YOUTHCAMP Open to U10-U14 girls (3rd Class-2nd Year) Virginia RFC Tue 14 Apr, 9am-1pm SCHOOLOF EXCELLENCE Open to boys aged 11-15 (Year 8-11) Ballyclare HS Wed 15 Apr, 9am-1pm

Letterkenny RFC Wed 8 Apr, 9am-1pm Dungannon RFC Thu 9 Apr, 9am-1pm Dromore RFC Wed 15 Apr, 9am-1pm Tir Chonnail RFC Thu 16 Apr, 9am-1pm

£15/ € 15* Camp fees include a tour of Kingspan Stadium and the Nevin Spence Centre *Euro applies to ROI UlsterRugby.com/Camps

2019/20 ULSTERSQUAD

Head Coach Dan McFarland Assistant Coach Dwayne Peel Forwards Coach Roddy Grant Defence Coach Jared Payne Skills Coach Dan Soper

WILL ADDISON

JOHN ANDREW

ROBERT BALOUCOUNE

BILLY BURNS

Utility Back 20.08.1992 186cm 93kg 19 IRE 4

Hooker 26.05.1993

Wing 19.08.1997 193cm 90kg 20 —

Fly Half 13.06.1994 185cm 86kg 36 —

181cm 104kg 62 —

SAM CARTER

MARCELL COETZEE

JOHN COONEY

ANGUS CURTIS

Lock 10.09.1989 200cm 116kg 7 AUS 16

Back Row 08.05.1991 192cm 114kg 40 SA 30

Scrum Half 01.05.1990 178cm 87kg 60 IRE 10

Centre 26.03.1998 178cm 92kg

13 —

MATT FADDES

CRAIG GILROY

IAIN HENDERSON

ROB HERRING

Centre/Wing 06.11.1991 185cm 93kg

Wing 11.03.1991 183cm 92kg 181 IRE 10

Lock 21.02.1992 199cm 117kg 112 IRE 55

Hooker 27.04.1990 184cm 107kg 180 IRE 10

12 —

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JAMES HUME

BILL JOHNSTON

GREG JONES

ROSS KANE

Centre 07.09.1998

Fly Half 07.02.1997 180cm 87kg 10 —

Back Row 13.01.1996

Prop 14.10.1994 180cm 118kg 46 —

187cm 98.1kg

196cm 105kg 16 —

15 —

ANGUS KERNOHAN

MICHAEL LOWRY

LOUIS LUDIK

ROB LYTTLE

Wing 02.03.1999 181cm 93kg

Fly Half 20.08.1998

Full Back 08.10.1986 182cm 90kg 104 —

Wing 28.01.1997 175cm 85kg 29 —

171cm 75.1kg 19 —

21 —

LUKE MARSHALL

ADAM McBURNEY

KYLE McCALL

ZACK McCALL

Centre 03.03.1991 181cm 97kg 139 IRE 11

Hooker 05.09.1996

Prop 02.01.1992 176cm 111kg 59 —

Hooker 10.02.1995

182cm 102kg 23 —

180cm 100kg

— —

STUART McCLOSKEY

JACK McGRATH

GARETH MILASINOVICH

MARTY MOORE

Centre 06.08.1992 193cm 111kg 120 IRE 3

Prop 11.10.1989 185cm 118kg 10 IRE 56

Prop 15.12.1992

Prop 01.03.1991 178cm 121kg 30 IRE 10

191cm 132kg

— —

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JORDI MURPHY

ALAN O’CONNOR

DAVID O’CONNOR

TOMMY O’HAGAN

Back Row 22.04.1991

Lock 10.09.1992 196cm 114kg 105 —

Lock 19.05.1995 194cm 110kg 5 —

Prop 05.10.1993

188cm 105kg 26 IRE 30

182cm 120kg 2 —

ERIC O’SULLIVAN

TOM O’TOOLE

MARCUS REA

MATTHEW REA

Prop 30.11.1995 185cm 115kg 39 —

Prop 23.09.1998

Back Row 08.09.1997

Back Row 21.09.1993 194cm 112kg 42 —

185cm 120kg 40 —

188cm 105kg 1 —

SEAN REIDY

CLIVE ROSS

DAVID SHANAHAN

JONNY STEWART

Back Row 10.05.1989

Back Row 14.06.1989

Scrum Half 20.06.1993 174cm 78kg 57 —

Scrum Half 20.02.1998 174cm 77kg

182cm 103kg 121 IRE 2

193cm 109kg 73 —

13 —

JACOB STOCKDALE

NICK TIMONEY

KIERAN TREADWELL

ANDREW WARWICK

Wing 03.04.1996

Back Row 01.08.1995 189cm 111kg 59 —

Lock 06.11.1995 198cm 118kg 86 IRE 3

Prop 12.03.1991 179cm 113kg 123 —

191cm 103kg 63 IRE 27

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TEAM

ULSTER

1 2

ERIC O'SULLIVAN

ADAM McBURNEY

15 14 13 12 11 10 9

MICHAEL LOWRY

3 4 ALAN

MARTY MOORE

ROBERT BALOUCOUNE

O’CONNOR (C)

LUKE MARSHALL

5 6 7 8

KIERAN TREADWELL

JAMES HUME

NICK TIMONEY

LOUIS LUDIK

JORDI MURPHY

BILL JOHNSTON

MARCELL COETZEE

DAVID SHANAHAN

TODAY’S OFFICIALS REFEREE MIKE ADAMSON SRU ASSISTANT REFEREES GEORGE CLANCY IRFU SAM GROVE-WHITE SRU TMO ANDRE McMENEMY SRU

REPLACEMENTS 16 17 18 19 J ANDREW A WARWICK T O’TOOLE D O’CONNOR

S REIDY J STEWART

20 21 22 23

S MOORE C GILROY

*TEAMS NOT CONFIRMED AT TIME OF PRINT

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TEAM

TOYOTACHEETAHS

1

CHARLES MARAIS

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

JOSEPH DWEBA

15 14 13 12 11 10

RHYNO SMITH

ARANOS COETZEE

CLAYTON BLOMMETJIES

WALT STEENKAMP

WILLIAM SMALL-SMITH

JP DUPREEZ

BENHARDJANSE VANRENSBURG

CHRIS MASSYN

RABZ MAXWANE

JUNIOR POKOMELA

TIAN SCHOEMAN

JASPER WIESE

9

RUAN PIENAAR (C)

REPLACEMENTS 16 17 18 19 W ARNOLDI B VENTER L DE BRUIN A DAVIS

G OLIVIER T MEYER L FOUCHE C SMIT

20 21 22 23

*TEAMS NOT CONFIRMED AT TIME OF PRINT

2019/20 TOYOTACHEETAHS Head Coach Hawies Fourie

Line Out Coach Corniel Van Zyl Defence Coach Charl Strydom Team Manager Ashwell Rafferty

ARANOS COETZEE

CLAYTON BLOMMETJIES

WILMAR ARNOLDI

CRAIG BARRY

Prop 14.03.1988 186cm 120kg

Utility back 30.08.1990 183cm 89kg

Wing 30.04.1992 182cm 90kg

Hooker 21.10.1994

181cm 108kg

LUAN DEBRUIN

JP DUPREEZ

JOSEPH DWEBA

AIDON DAVIS

Prop 13.02.1993

Lock 09.11.1994 209cm 115kg

Hooker 25.10.1995

Flanker 29.04.1994

183cm 120kg

175cm 108kg

191cm 100kg

LOUIS FOUCHE

BENHARD JANSEVANRENSBURG

SINTU MANJEZI

CHARLES MARIAS

Flyhalf 04.01.1990 189cm 98kg

Centre 14.01.1997 185cm 95kg

Lock 07.04.1995

Prop 29.08.1988

197cm 109kg

191cm 120kg

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CHRIS MASSYN

RABS MAXWANE

TIAN MEYER

GERHARD OLIVIER

Flanker 03.06.1994 186cm 83kg

Wing 14.08.1995 181cm 83kg

Scrumhalf 20.09.1988 177cm 84kg

Flanker 17.02.1993 189cm 105kg

RUAN PIENAAR

JUNIOR POKOMELA

TIAN SCHOEMAN

WILLIAM SMALL-SMITH

Scrumhalf 10.03.1984 189cm 92kg

No. 8 10.12.1996

Flyhalf 23.09.1991 182cm 89kg

Centre 31.03.1992 184cm 94kg

187cm 105kg

CHRIS SMIT

RHYNO SMITH

WALT STEENKAMP

BOAN VENTOR

Centre 01.08.1995 182cm 86kg

Full back 11.02.1993 173cm 81kg

Lock 24.08.1995 203cm 121kg

Prop 12.04.1997 187cm 119kg

REINACH VENTER

JASPER WIESE

Hooker 03.01.1995 177cm 118kg

No. 8 21.10.1995 190cm 110kg

For more information www.fscheetahs.co.za

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10 YEAR WOODSTAIN

2

22 10 50

50 10 10 22

HIGH PERFORMANCE WOOD FILLER 3

DECKING RESCUE PAINT 1

DECKING PROTECTOR

SHED & FENCE PRESERVER

4

5

10

GARDEN PAINT

DECKING STAIN

6

7

FENCE LIFE PLUS+

8

22

22

DOES EXACTLY WHAT IT SAYS ON THE TIN

THE BEST CLUBS WEAR MACRON WHY DON’T YOU?

CONTACT US FOR A QUOTATION UK COUNTRY MANAGER Andrea Palilla M: +39 347 3202669 andrea.palilla@macron.com SEE WHO ELSE HAS ALREADY CHOSEN MACRON:

www.macron.com

STATISTICS SO FAR THIS SEASON

COMPETITION SPECIFIC

4,063

4,214

Metres Gained

1,144

1,404

Carries

1,291

1,730

Tackles Made

49

53

Turnovers Won

116

97

Penalties Conceded

Top Tackler Sean Reidy 155 Tackles

Top Try Scorer Matt Faddes 6 Tries

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TONIGHT'SOPPONENTS TOYOTACHEETAHS ONESTOWATCH (COMPETITIONSOFAR)

682 TOP METRE MAKER

RHYNO SMITH

96 TOP TACKLER

Founded in 2005, Toyota Cheetahs are based at the Free State stadium in Bloemfontein, South Africa. The Toyota Cheetahs have played in the Super Rugby League between 2006 and 2017 before joining the PRO14 Competition prior to 2017-2018 season. The team's current head coach is Hawies Fourie.

WALT STEENKAMP

10 TOP TRY SCORER 68 TOP POINT SCORER

RHYNO SMITH

TOYOTA CHEETAHS GUINNESS PRO14 STATS SO FAR POINTS:

322 46 33

TRIES:

CONVERSIONS: PENALTIES:

8

RUAN PIENAAR

GUINNESS PRO14 CONFERENCE A TEAM

PL W D L PF PA DIFF TF TA TB LB PTS

Leinster Rugby Ulster Rugby Toyota Cheetahs Glasgow Warriors

11

11

0 0 400 149 251

56 20 8 0 52

11 7 0 4 335 242 93 45 32 7 2 37 11 6 0 5 322 247 75 46 29 5 2 31 11 6 0 5 281 222 59 41 27 4 1 29 10 4 0 6 186 273 -87 22 35 1 1 18 2 0 9 204 342 -138 27 49 4 2 14

Dragons

Zebre Rugby Club 11

Ospreys

11

2 0 9 152 305 -153 16 37 1

4 13

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CHARITYPARTNER SIXSTEPSTO TACKLEYOURFEELINGS

This Six Nations, our charity partner Extern is encouraging everyone to TACKLE their feelings with six recognised steps which can help improve wellbeing.

anxiety to clearer thinking and increased self-esteem when we see positive changes to our physical fitness or social life, being ACTIVE really can be a great way to work through mental health illness. Being active does not have to only mean going for a run. Do what you can to move your mood. Any form of physical movement can be beneficial: » Do some gardening » Try some stretches » Go for a gentle stroll at lunchtime » Join a sports team » Break up long periods of sitting » Jogging. You could try Couch to 5k or your local parkrun. » Take a yoga, Pilates or Tai Chi class CONNECTING - We all need to feel close to other people and valued by them. Having good relationships with colleagues helps us stay motivated and engaged. CONNECTING is about being there for others, talking and listening, and feeling a sense of belonging. How to connect: » Chat with the Extern's Reach Out team about any worries you have in relation to your wellbeing. » Join a team or club » Talk to someone and really listen » Organise a shared lunch » Reconnect with an old friend » Eat lunch with friends or colleagues Evidence shows that connecting with others and forming good relationships – with family, friends and the wider community – are important for mental wellbeing.

Why not take a few moments to improve your wellbeing by thinking how you could follow the six simple

steps below: » T ake Notice » A ctive » C onnect » K eep Learning » L end a hand » E nergy

TAKING NOTICE to increase awareness, concentration, and focus on the current moment and the task at hand, has been shown to improve wellbeing and mood. One of the reasons why we sometimes find ourselves struggling mentally is that our thoughts drift off to bad memories or things we regret or regret not doing from our past Here some ideas to help reconnect with the world around you: » Keep a beautiful object near your desk » Practise gratitude » Try mindfulness meditation » Sit quietly in a garden or park » Listen to your favourite music » Take a break from digital devices ACTIVE - As well as improving physical health and fitness, being ACTIVE can also improve our mood and overall mental wellbeing, as well as decreasing stress, depression and anxiety. From reduced

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LENDING A HAND makes us feel good. Carrying out acts of kindness, whether small or large, can increase happiness, life satisfaction and general sense of wellbeing. ENERGY - try to look after yourself. Stay safe, respect your body and make the healthiest choices you can. » Try and eat with other people where and when you can, so you get the opportunity to chat. » Sleeping can help ease stress, so make time for it. » Take regular time offline and spend a while enjoying the silence. » Try and get outdoors and into daylight when you can. » Every little step you take to improve your physical health, will help improve your overall wellbeing. For more information As one of Ireland’s largest charities, Extern provides confidential, non- judgmental emotional support for people of all ages who are experiencing feelings of anxiety, distress, or despair, and who are living with a mental illness. Extern Reach Out Reach Out by Extern offers support to people whose lives have been impacted by substance or alcohol misuse, suicide, self-harm or mental health issues. » You can call us on 07442 533165 » You can WhatsApp us on 07442 533165 and we’ll get back to you. » You can email us at reachout@extern.org Lifeline If you or someone you know needs help, you can telephone Lifeline free at any time. Lifeline is a crisis response helpline available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It offers immediate help over the telephone if you, or someone you know, is in distress or despair. Telephone: 0808 808 8000

KEEP LEARNING - Setting goals, being open to new ideas and continuing to KEEP LEARNING throughout life helps boost wellbeing and build resilience. Continuing to learn throughout adult life has been associated with improved mental wellbeing. It can improve self-confidence, self-esteem and maintain a sense of hope and purpose. It can even instil a greater ability to cope with stress. Here's some simple suggestions to exploring new ideas, seeing opportunities, embracing new experiences and sharpening our skills: » Take on a new task or help someone » Get to know your colleagues more » Join a book club or your local library - all have free WiFi, computers for public use, events and ... You can also find newspapers, magazines and local information. » Add to your work knowledge with colleagues » Organise lunchtime workshops » Listen to a podcast or read a journal article » Take a course » Learn an instrument or language » Set a goal and work towards achieving it Learning improves our self-esteem, keeps us connected and involved and helps us adapt to change and find meaning in our lives. LENDING A HAND is about more than just sharing material things with others. It’s about cultivating a spirit of generosity and actively supporting others. Helping others and working towards a shared goal can stimulate the reward areas in the brain and help generate positive feelings. Here's some ideas to boost your self-worth and happiness by giving: » Volunteer with Extern » Express gratitude - thank someone » Compliment someone » Help a colleague with their work » Share your ideas or feedback » Make someone a cup of tea or offer a smile - the simple things can make a big difference » Perform a random act of kindness for a colleague, friend or even a stranger

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ROD NAWN

This weekend has the potential to fill the glass of rugby cheer to overflowing, and this evening at Kingspan Stadium Ulster will hope to set a winning template for Ireland at Twickenham tomorrow! ULSTERNEEDTORUAN CHEETAHS’ HOPES

be confident that wins and vital league points can and should be secured tonight, then against Benetton next week in Italy before a further three-week break for the squad. As the crowd looks forward to welcoming Ruan Pienaar back ‘home’, the warmth of that greeting will be undiluted but it will not include a hope that he reprises his many acts of match-winning genius for his new South African club! His seven-year spell with Ulster is viewed as a fairy-tale relationship, the Springboks pivot turning in man-of-the-match performances, it seemed, on a weekly basis. Pienaar departed in 2017; it was a traumatic and emotional parting of the ways, but Ruan made it clear that he fully intended to return and make his home here. He took up a lucrative offer to play in France for Montpellier and we all enviously monitored his career in the Top 14, hoping that as his career came to an end he’d become a fixture in the Ulster coaching box! That grand plan may have been tragically derailed by the loss of his sister Rene in a fatal road crash in his homeland a year ago. Ruan was released on compassionate grounds by the French club and his priority was his extended family and, particularly, his sister’s children. The Cheetahs offered a route back to first-class rugby and Bloemfontein is his nearby sporting home now. The club’s huge improvement in performance this season is not just down to the presence of one of the finest No. 9s the world has ever seen, but coupled with good, directed

But first things first, and after what seems an eternity Guinness PRO14 battle returns to Belfast, and the visit of the Cheetahs provides plenty of pre-match discussion points. Most important of all is the expectation that the home side can put last week’s rather surprising loss at the Ospreys into a more positive perspective. Currently lying second only to runaway Leinster in Conference A, Dan McFarland has shrewdly guided Ulster to within striking distance of the all-important PRO14 play-offs – and a Champions Cup quarter-final – but he’ll be acutely aware of the challenge in the league from tonight’s free-running visitors and a revitalised Glasgow. In short, he’ll expect and demand a win this evening, and as he navigates the governing body’s player management scheme he understands, like all the Irish Provinces’ coaches, that his team must focus on the opportunities and not the absence of those on Ireland duty. Some of those who trooped off the sodden Liberty Stadium pitch last weekend will know that given their chance against the Ospreys they possibly didn’t perform as they can. Tonight, in front of an increasingly supportive Kingspan Stadium crowd, the side McFarland fields knows its responsibility to him and to the fans. Matches during the Six Nations throw up different challenges to every team, and McFarland and his gifted coaching group will

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