Match Previews

Ulster ready to kick off European campaign in Bath

8th December 2023
Dan McFarland has named his team to kick off Ulster’s Investec Champions Cup campaign against Pool 2 opponents, Bath Rugby, at The Rec tomorrow (kick-off at 3.15pm).

Club captain and Ireland international lock, Iain Henderson, returns to the team following a short-term injury to lead the side in Bath. Henderson is joined by Alan O’Connor in an experienced second row.

The front row remains unchanged from last week’s BKT United Rugby Championship defeat against Edinburgh Rugby, as World Cup-winning Springbok prop, Steven Kitshoff, makes his European debut for his new club. Hooker Tom Stewart and tighthead prop, Tom O’Toole, retain their places in the front pack.

Former Exeter Chiefs man, Dave Ewers returns to the starting line-up at blindside flanker. Nick Timoney starts on the openside, with Ulster Rugby Academy forward, James McNabney, starting at eight again as he makes his third start in succession.

Nathan Doak and Billy Burns form the half-back partnership.

The centre partnership remains unchanged from last week, as Stuart McCloskey and James Hume hope to stamp their authority in Bath.

Jacob Stockdale starts on the left wing, with Rob Baloucoune retaining his spot on Ulster’s right wing. The Enniskillen man got off the mark with his first try of the season last week.

Versatile back player, Stewart Moore, starts at full-back to complete the back-field.

McFarland names a strong bench, with a mixture of experience and youth to select from, opting for a 5:3 split.

There is a welcome return for Ireland international, Rob Herring, who returns to the matchday 23 after injury kept him out against Glasgow Warriors and Edinburgh Rugby.

Jake Flannery and Mike Lowry also return to the team, following their injuries.

Andrew Warwick, Marty Moore, Kieran Treadwell, Matty Rea and John Cooney complete the replacements.

Bath Rugby v Ulster Rugby, Investec Champions Cup, Round 1, Pool Stage, Saturday 9 December, 3.15pm, live on TNT Sports and BBC Radio Ulster.

(15-9) Stewart Moore, Rob Baloucoune, James Hume, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, Billy Burns, Nathan Doak;

(1-8) Steven Kitshoff, Tom Stewart, Tom O’Toole, Alan O’Connor, Iain Henderson (C), Dave Ewers, Nick Timoney, James McNabney.

Replacements: Rob Herring, Andrew Warwick, Marty Moore, Kieran Treadwell, Matty Rea, John Cooney, Jake Flannery, Mike Lowry.

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