Ulster Rugby v Glasgow

to help Ulster to a narrow 23-22 win over Benetton Rugby. Oddly however, the significance of this incredible achievement has yet to register with the modest scrumhalf. “It’s something which I know I’ll look back on fondly in a few months or years’ time. When you’re in it, you’re just thinking about getting another cap, and another one and you always want to play one more game. I know that there are things that I will be proud of when I take stock and reflect in time to come, but at the minute 200 caps doesn’t seem like a big deal because playing rugby is just something that I’ve always done. “I know that only six guys so far have done that (Darren Cave followed suit) and I’m incredibly privileged to be in the same group as those guys. The fact that some of them have been here the whole time I have is really nice. It’s been a great journey to share.” Having been involved in the Ulster setup since 2006, Marshall has seen a lot of changes around the club, had the opportunity to work with a variety of coaches and players and has a host of influential people to whom he credits his development as a player. “When thinking of my biggest influence on my rugby career, it’s hard not to think of my parents from my mini rugby and school days for all the lifts to and from training and matches and the general support from them. The support from my wife and my two biggest fans (my kids) has been incredible and has encouraged me greatly. “There have been so many players and coaches who have had a great influence on my rugby that it’s hard to pick anyone out. Niall Malone and Neil Doak both coached me at Methody, right through the Ulster setup, so guys like that have had a big impact on my career and I’m thankful to them for the amount of time they invested in me from the age of 16 right up to now. “I’ve played with or against the likes of Andrew Trimble and Chris Henry since our mini rugby days and I’ve played with Darren Cave from Ulster Schools right through to senior international level. Those guys are good friends and it’s been nice to share some good memories with them. I’ve always tried to have an open mind and learn whatever I can from anyone I’ve played with or been coached by.” With thoughts of rugby to one side all that remains to be decided for Marshall is what to do next. “That’s the big question! I’m considering the likes of a teaching or coaching pathway, or potentially a business development, project management or commercial type career. It’s really just a case of seeing what avenue best fits my skillset. I know that, having been in a rugby environment, the key attributes of working hard, being disciplined and persevering will stand the test for whatever comes next.”

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