As Ulster powered to a third straight Guinness PRO14 win on Friday night, Chris Henry has paid tribute to the supporters, who created a special occasion at Kingspan Stadium.
Les Kiss’ side recorded a 27-20 victory against reigning champions, the Scarlets, which included a late match-winning try by replacement hooker John Andrew, and Ulster’s skipper was quick to point out that the fans had played their part in the success.
“It meant an awful lot,” said Henry, in reference to the support received throughout the encounter.
“You’ve got to put your body on the line and to have that noise and that roar means so much to the players. It gets you up that bit quicker from rucks and makes you stand that bit taller. It was awesome to see.
“We know we have to give the fans something to cheer about as they turn up in force each week. That’s what makes Kingspan Stadium a fortress and somewhere we’re so lucky to play in.”
There was a lot of emotion surrounding the game, as it marked five years to the day since Nevin Spence passed away. This was not lost on the players, or indeed the many thousand spectators.
“Nevin was certainly in everyone’s thoughts and whenever the noise came at the end and the fans were standing up, it was special. I have not heard it as loud as that for a long, long time. Without a doubt it was a poignant night and I think we did Nevin proud and hopefully his family as well.”
Reflecting on the performance, Henry said,
“It is always nice to go out there and win. You’re not always going to play your best, but to grind out the win is a fantastic feeling. That was a quality side we played on Friday and for us to come off on the right side of the result is great for our confidence.”
“I thought the breakdown battle, especially in the first half, was tough, but very fun to be involved in. Boys got stuck in, rolled up their sleeves and worked really hard for each other.”
Having won three from three in the opening rounds of PRO14, Henry is adamant that the team must continue to work hard to maintain the run.
“We want to make sure that any team that comes here is going to have a tough night. We have to do the things that matter and keep preparing well each week.
“With Jono (Gibbes) and Dwayne (Peel) coming in, we really want to train with intensity where it’s harder in training during the week than it is during the game. Then when the game comes you know you’ve put it in during the week and you’re confident.”
Henry was also quick to praise the input of players in the wider squad.
“The players that are missing out on selection are contributing in a massive way every week. People like Pete Browne, who wasn’t involved against Scarlets, turned up last Monday morning to do his homework and ran the opposition lineout better than the opposition will. Those things matter.
“We’re a long way from where we can be but without a doubt we’re very happy with how the season has kicked off.”
Ulster Rugby is at home again on Friday night as another Welsh side, Dragons, visit Kingspan Stadium. Tickets are still available for the game (including some availability in the Grandstand). Visit ulsterrugby.com/buytickets to purchase.
Les Kiss’ side recorded a 27-20 victory against reigning champions, the Scarlets, which included a late match-winning try by replacement hooker John Andrew, and Ulster’s skipper was quick to point out that the fans had played their part in the success.
“It meant an awful lot,” said Henry, in reference to the support received throughout the encounter.
“You’ve got to put your body on the line and to have that noise and that roar means so much to the players. It gets you up that bit quicker from rucks and makes you stand that bit taller. It was awesome to see.
“We know we have to give the fans something to cheer about as they turn up in force each week. That’s what makes Kingspan Stadium a fortress and somewhere we’re so lucky to play in.”
There was a lot of emotion surrounding the game, as it marked five years to the day since Nevin Spence passed away. This was not lost on the players, or indeed the many thousand spectators.
“Nevin was certainly in everyone’s thoughts and whenever the noise came at the end and the fans were standing up, it was special. I have not heard it as loud as that for a long, long time. Without a doubt it was a poignant night and I think we did Nevin proud and hopefully his family as well.”
Reflecting on the performance, Henry said,
“It is always nice to go out there and win. You’re not always going to play your best, but to grind out the win is a fantastic feeling. That was a quality side we played on Friday and for us to come off on the right side of the result is great for our confidence.”
“I thought the breakdown battle, especially in the first half, was tough, but very fun to be involved in. Boys got stuck in, rolled up their sleeves and worked really hard for each other.”
Having won three from three in the opening rounds of PRO14, Henry is adamant that the team must continue to work hard to maintain the run.
“We want to make sure that any team that comes here is going to have a tough night. We have to do the things that matter and keep preparing well each week.
“With Jono (Gibbes) and Dwayne (Peel) coming in, we really want to train with intensity where it’s harder in training during the week than it is during the game. Then when the game comes you know you’ve put it in during the week and you’re confident.”
Henry was also quick to praise the input of players in the wider squad.
“The players that are missing out on selection are contributing in a massive way every week. People like Pete Browne, who wasn’t involved against Scarlets, turned up last Monday morning to do his homework and ran the opposition lineout better than the opposition will. Those things matter.
“We’re a long way from where we can be but without a doubt we’re very happy with how the season has kicked off.”
Ulster Rugby is at home again on Friday night as another Welsh side, Dragons, visit Kingspan Stadium. Tickets are still available for the game (including some availability in the Grandstand). Visit ulsterrugby.com/buytickets to purchase.