Ulster Rugby vs Connacht

ARTICLE BY ROD NAWN FREELANCE JOURNALIST AND SPORTS ENTHUSIAST @RODNAWN1

Sunday had its flaws no doubt, but it also showed character in that second-half response, and the players returned home reassured that they belong at the top table. Tonight, they must confirm that, for a sustained PRO12 challenge is vital to the success of this season. In Europe all is not lost, but those are matters for January, Connacht is the formidable hurdle to outplay, outwit and out-think this evening in front of a pre-Christmas ‘Full House’ which is hoping for the ultimate festive present: a convincing win against wily and hugely committed opponents. John Muldoon, that ageless back-row warrior, will want to set the tone on the pitch, be fiercely combative at the breakdown and full of guile in the set piece, while the skipper will want his talented, physical backline to exploit possession – it was limited at the end of last season, but it was richly exploited. Ulster and Connacht have much to gain this evening, the former a firm spot in the title chase, the latter another step up the table from bewilderingly poor beginnings. Both sides have shown their appetite for reward, both will be well-prepared and ready for a feisty encounter. Ulster is acutely aware that Leinster awaits at the RDS on New Year’s Eve, and that a win in there could be transformative if Connacht was to be confidently repelled. However, this evening thoughts cannot drift to Dublin 4, the focus must be on a side which Pat Lam has fashioned into not just a power in the PRO12 but at the top rank in Europe. It’s been quite a journey for the man who as a player and coach has always commanded respect and now enjoys such affection beyond the Sportsground. Ulster wishes him well next year in Bristol, and during his remaining time in Connacht, but he will well understand that doesn’t extend to Les Kiss or Neil Doak having any intention of allowing him to leave Kingspan Stadium with a second successive win! For the home supporters your team wants to deliver a timely Christmas gift of at least four PRO12 Championship points, and to provide even more proof that on New Year’s Eve and in 2017 lies rugby trophy prosperity and fulfilment. Happy Christmas everyone, enjoy the fare this evening – it’ll be a ‘cracker’!

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