Following an impressive opening-round victory away to Munster Rugby, Ulster will be aiming to build momentum in front of a home crowd as they continue their pursuit of a third consecutive Interprovincial title.
Match Details
- Fixture: Ulster Juniors v Connacht Juniors
- Date & Time: Saturday 2nd May 2026, Kickoff 1.30pm
- Venue: Enniskillen RFC
- Streamed: Via Enniskillen RFC to YouTube (details to follow)
Strong Start Sets the Tone
Ulster opened their campaign in style with a 40–34 win in Cork, overcoming Munster in a high-scoring and physical encounter. That performance showcased both the attacking threat and resilience within the squad, as they fought back from behind to secure a deserved away victory.
With confidence high, the challenge now is to back that result up and maintain the standards that have delivered back-to-back titles in recent seasons.
Connacht Riding High
Connacht arrive in Enniskillen on the back of a dramatic opening-round victory of their own, edging past Leinster Rugby 34–31 thanks to a last-gasp 83rd-miunte score.
That result underlines Connacht’s ability to stay in the fight and deliver in key moments, with their late try sealing the win deep into added time. The western province have introduced a number of new faces this season, bringing energy and unpredictability to their play.
Ulster will be well aware of the threat Connacht pose, particularly given their resilience and attacking intent shown in the opening round.
Home Advantage in Enniskillen
Saturday’s fixture marks Ulster’s first home game of the campaign, with Enniskillen RFC hosting what promises to be a competitive encounter.
The venue is strongly represented within the squad, reflecting the depth and quality of the club game across the province, a key factor in Ulster’s continued success at this level.
Looking Ahead
With both sides coming into the game off opening-round victories, Saturday’s clash promises to be a tightly contested affair.
For Ulster, the objective is clear - build on their strong start, make home advantage count, and take another step towards a potential three-in-a-row.
Team News
Head Coach Damien Campbell has named a strong side as Ulster look to build on their opening win.
Eddie Keys captains the side from out-half following his standout performance last time out, where he played a central role in Ulster’s attacking success.
There is a strong Enniskillen core throughout the team, particularly across the pack and half-backs, while representation from Dromore RFC, Omagh Academicals RFC, Lurgan RFC, Portadown RFC and Ards RFC highlights the provincial spread.
The Keys family remain central to Ulster’s setup, with Henry Keys and Angus Keys named in the back row alongside captain Eddie’s leadership at fly-half.
In the backs, Dean Dillon and James Ferguson continue their midfield partnership, while Charlie Williamson directs play from scrum-half.
Ulster Starting XV
1 David Braden Omagh
2 Niall Kennan Enniskillen
3 Ryan Emerson Lurgan
4 James Wright Portadown
5 Richard Dickson Dromore
6 Henry Keys Enniskillen
7 Angus Keys Enniskillen
8 Michael Rooney Enniskillen
9 Charlie Williamson Lurgan
10 Eddie Keys Enniskillen (C)
11 Robbie Johnston Ards
12 Dean Dillon Dromore
13 James Ferguson Enniskillen
14 Sam Balfour Enniskillen
15 Jonny Hunter Dromore
Replacements
16 Tom Artur Donan Ards
17 Oisin Timoney Enniskillen
18 Simon Creane Omagh
19 Joe Duff Omagh
20 Jack Rutledge Enniskillen
21 Andy Smyth Bangor
22 Drew Fleck Portadown
23 Daire Hill Enniskillen
Management
• Head Coach Damien Campbell
• Assistants Graeme Eastwood and Simon Patterson
• Team Manager Jeremy Ogle
• Physio Molly Mathers