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Sunday had its flaws no doubt, but it also showed
character in that second-half response, and the
players returned home reassured that they belong
at the top table.
Tonight, they must confirm that, for a sustained
PRO12 challenge is vital to the success of this
season. In Europe all is not lost, but those are
matters for January, Connacht is the formidable
hurdle to outplay, outwit and out-think this evening
in front of a pre-Christmas ‘Full House’ which is
hoping for the ultimate festive present: a convincing
win against wily and hugely committed opponents.
John Muldoon, that ageless back-row warrior,
will want to set the tone on the pitch, be fiercely
combative at the breakdown and full of guile in the
set piece, while the skipper will want his talented,
physical backline to exploit possession – it was
limited at the end of last season, but it was richly
exploited.
Ulster and Connacht have much to gain this
evening, the former a firm spot in the title chase, the
latter another step up the table from bewilderingly
poor beginnings. Both sides have shown their
appetite for reward, both will be well-prepared and
ready for a feisty encounter.
Ulster is acutely aware that Leinster awaits at
the RDS on New Year’s Eve, and that a win in
there could be transformative if Connacht was
to be confidently repelled. However, this evening
thoughts cannot drift to Dublin 4, the focus must be
on a side which Pat Lam has fashioned into not just
a power in the PRO12 but at the top rank in Europe.
It’s been quite a journey for the man who as
a player and coach has always commanded
respect and now enjoys such affection beyond the
Sportsground. Ulster wishes him well next year in
Bristol, and during his remaining time in Connacht,
but he will well understand that doesn’t extend
to Les Kiss or Neil Doak having any intention of
allowing him to leave Kingspan Stadium with a
second successive win!
For the home supporters your team wants to
deliver a timely Christmas gift of at least four
PRO12 Championship points, and to provide even
more proof that on New Year’s Eve and in 2017 lies
rugby trophy prosperity and fulfilment.
Happy Christmas everyone, enjoy the fare this
evening – it’ll be a ‘cracker’!
ARTICLE BY ROD NAWN
FREELANCE JOURNALIST
AND SPORTS ENTHUSIAST
@RODNAWN1