Ulster heads into the final weekend of the season with a challenging away game at Munster. The team has struggled with turnovers, winning only 81 across 17 domestic games, while conceding possession 192 times. However, there were signs of improvement in their recent victory over Leinster, where Ulster secured eight turnovers and conceded just six. Nick Timoney recognizes the upcoming game against Munster’s back row as a significant test.
Timoney emphasized the importance of improving their breakdown to enhance their attacking shape, keep Munster out of their half, and seize opportunities. He acknowledged that Ulster had been sloppy in their attacking breakdown for much of the season, struggling with accuracy, positioning, timing, and clear objectives. Over the past six to eight weeks, coaches Roddy Grant and Richie Murphy have focused on addressing these issues, and Timoney feels the team is making progress.
For the match at Thomond Park, Murphy has the advantage of naming the same starting lineup that defeated Leinster. Ulster has recovered from early and mid-season struggles, securing four consecutive wins, and Timoney believes they are in a strong position heading into the URC playoffs.
Reflecting on the season, Timoney noted that it has been unusual, with low expectations from others potentially working in Ulster’s favor. He compared their situation to Munster’s previous season, where they won three consecutive away games to clinch victory. Timoney remains optimistic, citing recent examples from the Champions and Challenge Cups, where unexpected outcomes in knockout games proved that anything is possible.
Timoney added, “We’ve had some strong seasons and have been second in the league table, which can make us a target in the playoffs. But this year, with lower expectations, we might surprise some people. As Munster demonstrated last year, winning away games consecutively isn’t impossible. In knockout games, it’s all about who performs on the day, and we’re ready for that challenge.”
