Richie Murphy's Ulster side welcomed back three international players in Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale and James Hume after last week's 31-28 defeat to Super Rugby touring side, Queensland Reds, at Kingspan Stadium.
This weekend's fixture in Treviso offers both sides the opportunity to bounce back after difficult defeats in the last URC Round.
Ulster were left disappointed after a 14-15 home loss to Zebre Parma, while Benetton suffered a shock 43-0 loss against Ospreys in Wales.
That defeat came after a superb away performance against French giants, La Rochelle, in the Investec Champions Cup.
The Italian side surprised many by beating the TOP 14 giants 25-32 and qualifying for the Round of 16.
Ulster sit in ninth position, sitting just one point outside of the top eight on 23 points.
Benetton find themselves level on points but in 11th spot due to a points difference of -73.
Match Details
🤝 Benetton Rugby v Ulster Rugby
🏆 BKT United Rugby Championship, Round 11
📅 Saturday 15th February
⏰ 5.15pm KO
🏟️ Stadio Monigo
📺 Live on Premier Sports
How things stand
Last time out
On Ulster's previous visit to Treviso, the province narrowly lost out against the Italians in a 31-29 thriller. Rhyno Smyth's last gasp penalty gave the home side the victory after a back and forth match.
Tomas Albornoz, Onisi Ratave and Ignacio Brex crossed for Benetton, with Ulster responding through Eric O'Sullivan, Rob Herring, Mike Lowry and a penalty try.
The match got off to a great start from the away side, with John Cooney's pass perfect for the oncoming Eric O'Sullivan to steam in for the opening score.
Argentine fly-half, Tomas Albornoz, then showed his class with a dart into space to get the Italians off the mark. Benetton then took the lead after Brex kicked cross-field for Ratave on the left wing, and the Fiji man sped in to score. John Cooney's penalty reduced the lead to a HT score of 17-10.
After the break, Benetton quickly added another three points after Albornoz slotted home a drop goal effort.
Ulster then got their impressive maul going, and hooker, Rob Herring, dotting it down to reduce the deficit.
Smith then nailed a long-range pen to add another three for the Italians.
After being the provider earlier on, centre, Brex then went over in the corner himself after a devastating attack.
A Mike Lowry try and a penalty try gave Ulster a slender lead going into the final few minutes, however a late Smith penalty that pinged off the post and in, gave the Italians the victory.
Key Players to Watch:
Ulster supporters should be aware of several standout players in the Benetton lineup:
Malakai Fekitoa (Centre): The former All Black brings a wealth of experience and physicality to the midfield, making him a constant threat in attack.
Tomás Albornoz (Fly-Half): The Argentine fly-half is known for his tactical kicking and playmaking abilities, orchestrating Benetton's offensive strategies.
Rhyno Smith (Full-Back): Smith is celebrated for his versatility and adaptability on the field.
His ability to play multiple positions in the backline makes him a valuable asset for the Italians. His tactical kicking, sharp decision-making, and try-scoring prowess are all strengths of the South African's game.