Ulster produced a poor first half display at Welford Road, which led to the Tigers holding a 19-3 advantage at the break, only for the visitors to snatch a losing bonus point courtesy of Tommy Bowe and Franco van der Merwe tries.
Henry was left frustrated with the nature of the performance and the outcome: “Everyone’s pretty hurt to be honest. We went there with a lot of confidence and we thought if we played well we’d get a result but unfortunately certain aspects of our game weren’t up to scratch. But credit to Leicester, they took it to us and finished off some good tries.”
Dissecting the match, Henry added, “Our lineout didn’t function at crucial times through a combination of bad lifts, jumps and throws. Our discipline again was poor and it’s frustrating for us because it’s all things that we can control. The discipline aspect is something we’ve talked about and unfortunately, still, in the heat of battle people are making silly mistakes.”
Despite the obvious disappointment, the Ireland star was keen to draw positives from a vastly improved second half which rescued a point. “The game was away from us at half time but everyone dug in really deep and that losing bonus point could prove vital. We’re annoyed and hurt from last week but it’s about putting that behind us and getting a buzz going again for Saturday.”
Saturday's game was the first time Ulster has lost their opening European game since a 10-26 defeat at home to Stade Francais in 2008. But Henry is adamant the hosts will produce the required response: “They’ve won the competition two years in a row and they’re a quality team but I’ve no doubt we’re going to turn up and put in a serious performance. When we’re on the money we can put any team away. The atmosphere at the Glasgow game two weeks ago was incredible and I think it’s going to be a step up from that again this weekend. That will give us a huge lift as well.”
Henry has also backed the #wearwhitemakenoise campaign which is urging Ulster supporters to dress up in white and make as much noise as possible on Saturday afternoon.
The first 400 people to enter the stadium will receive a free Ulster Rugby scarf and there will be loads of other giveaways for those arriving early. Gates open at 11.30am.