Ulster Rugby vs Connacht

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Clearly focussed on Connacht’s arrival, Reidy relaxes for a moment, and reflects on the little things about life in Belfast which have made him extend his stay at Ulster so much easier. “Me and some of the guys are into our coffee, so we like to check out the new places and revisit some of our favourite cafes, which is good fun. “And I like to get on a bike and just go for a ride around the city, along the river, so I have a really good life away from the game which is a key thing for me,” he says. But the coffee expeditions can wait, for Reidy knows the next month is critical to Ulster’s year and that there are no margins for error now. “Personally I came here, and wanted to stay, because I know something special is happening at Ulster and if we’re playing a bit of ‘catch-up’ at the moment we are all committed to playing the style of rugby we are capable of and which will, I’m certain, bring regular success. “We’re in this as a squad, and I would hope to be part of getting things back on track against Connacht – for ourselves and the coaches, but most of all for the supporters.”

depth is the key to success now and in the future,” says the engaging Reidy. “Les Kiss asks us to challenge ourselves, and he has a team of coaches around him who are positive and innovative, so it’s always enjoyable to come to work. Joe Barakat, who specialises in the collision area, has added to the quality we have, and I do a lot of work with him which has really brought me forward. And with the management as a whole, and the Strength and Conditioning team who really deserve much more credit.” Sean keenly shares the disappointment of supporters as the side has slipped out of the PRO12 top four, and three defeats in the last four outings has made the target of a home semi-final in the play-offs much more difficult. “There’s no doubt about it, we have our backs against the wall dropping down the table as we have, but we are all – players and coaches – still determined to reach the playoffs, and hopefully finish in the top two, which would mean a home game in the semis. “That would be great, there’s something really special about playing in front of the Kingspan Stadium fans, and they will be so important this Friday against Connacht, and then in our last regular-season game here with Leinster. “We are all determined to take something tangible from this season, so a home playoff, and then a final in Edinburgh where there’s a huge Ulster contingent, is the aim,” says Reidy.

SEAN REIDY

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