Ulster Rugby vs Zebre

Managing Director, PRO12 Rugby Welcome

The final hurdles of a dramatic Guinness PRO12 Championship season are approaching and the competition to break into the top four has never been so intense. Last weekend’s results have opened the door for Ulster Rugby to push on into the top four for the first time since Round 11 and if Les Kiss’ men can keep up their rich vein of form then everyone will mark them as title contenders. Indeed, a top-four finish for Ulster would see them reach the Final Series for the fifth time and already their Round 22 fixture with rivals Leinster Rugby looks like being one of the fiercest battles on Super Saturday. Of course, the pinnacle for all of our clubs is to reach the Guinness PRO12 Final which will be held in Dublin on May 27 and if that game lives up to the action we’ve seen so far this season, then it’s going to be a classic. Attacking play has long been the hallmark of the Guinness PRO12 but this year it’s gone on to such a new level that we’re in danger of burning out our scoreboards. In Round 16, Glasgow Warriors’ Peter Murchie was responsible for scoring the 500th try of the campaign and by the time the final whistle had been blown on Round 17 we stood at 532 tries. That is a staggering total, which is further underlined when you take into account that we didn’t pass the 500-mark until Round 20 last season. What it means is that in every Guinness PRO12 match you’re likely to see at least five tries and 43 points scored, which is as good a reason as any to watch the action in person. That attacking intent has been backed up by a positive approach by our teams. Out of the 4,287 points scored so far only 18% have come from penalties which indicates that our clubs are more interested in kicking to the corner than pointing to the posts. Our fans certainly seem to be enjoying it, too, because we’ve seen a significant rise in attendances this season with well over three quarters of a million supporters coming through the gates in the first 17 Rounds. Of course, tonight’s action sees Ulster pick up on the fixture that was due to be played before Christmas and with Zebre Rugby’s young team coming to Kingspan Stadium, I’m sure there will be a lot of enthusiasm and excitement out on the pitch. Ulster will have to navigate a tough end of year schedule to reach the Final Series, but history proves that the Province always produce their best form at this time of year and I’m sure they’ll contribute to a thrilling climax this season. The competition to claim the Championship title is ramping up with intensity every week but you still have time to guarantee your place at the Guinness PRO12 Final at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on May 27. It promises to be an unmissable event and prices start at just €35. Ticket sales have been incredibly strong so far and you can avoid missing out by logging onto www.ticketmaster.ie to get yours.

Enjoy the game, Martin Anayi

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