Ella, we are hoping to bounce back after defeat in our opening game against Munster last weekend, how do you feel the game went on reflection?
"I think we started well. We came out of the blocks hard and I think both teams had periods of dominance. We fronted up to Munster and were making our hits but unfortunately, they pushed on and errors crept into our game. We’ve reviewed the game and we are focusing on building from the positives in our performance and making sure we clean up our errors."
Can you talk us through your try?
"I play with Maeve Liston at Blackrock RFC, so I we are more used to playing off each other. The pack had worked really hard to get us into a good and Maeve put through a lovely ball and I think I got lucky with the bounce of the ball. That’s the blessing and the curse of a rugby ball, you never know where it will end up, you just have to get yourself into the position for the chance to go your way."
You scored two conversions in the match, how much do you enjoy the kicking side of the game?
"I grew up playing Gaelic so kicking has always been a part of the game that I enjoy. I suppose it’s something that has been a focus for me for the last while, it can be a massive benefit for the team if we can kick well and put the other team under pressure. I’d love to see it used more widely in the Women’s game."
You played at centre; how do you feel the back line performed?
"As a backline I think we were solid in defence for the majority of the game. We’ve worked a lot on building good relationships so the girls can confidently play off each other. We’ve a lot more to show in attack, we didn’t get many opportunities in open play so I’m looking forward to those chances in the games to come. There are so many really talented players in our backline and I hope the girls get the chance to show that."
How is morale in the squad ahead of Leinster? Are you looking forward to the test?
"There is such a short turn around between the matches, so you have to learn from your mistakes and get yourself ready for the next test. We’ve done the work so the girls are looking forward to putting that out on the pitch. I’ve played against Leinster a number of times and I play my club rugby in Leinster so we are familiar with them.
They have a talented squad, like us they have a mixture of youth and experience but we need to focus on ourselves and play out our game plan. No doubt both teams will be up for the match."
Watch behind the scenes of Ulster's Interprovincial opener against Munster at City of Armagh RFC
Vodafone Interprovincial Championship Fixtures
