Belfast, GB – The stakes couldn’t be higher for Ulster Rugby this weekend as they prepare to host French powerhouse Stade Francais Paris in a decisive EPCR Challenge Cup Round 4 fixture. With both teams vying for supremacy in Pool 3, the outcome of this clash at Affidea Stadium will almost certainly determine the group winner and secure crucial top seeding for the knockout stages.
The Battle for Pool Leadership
Head Coach Richie Murphy has announced his Ulster match day squad for what is being billed as a true fight for the top spot. Currently second in the pool, Ulster knows that a victory over the French visitors is essential if they are to avoid a potentially tougher draw in the Round of 16.
The fixture, scheduled for Saturday, 17th January, promises high-intensity rugby, embodying the spirit of European competition. Fans attending the Affidea Stadium are anticipating a fierce contest, as both sides bring significant pedigree and recent form into the encounter.
Key Selections in the Starting XV
Murphy has opted for a blend of seasoned experience and emerging talent in his starting line-up. The front row sees Wallaby loosehead prop Angus Bell packing down alongside hooker Tom Stewart and tighthead prop Tom O’Toole. Bell’s inclusion adds significant international weight to the scrum.
The engine room of the pack features the leadership of Ulster and Ireland lock, Iain Henderson, who captains the side. He partners with Harry Sheridan in the second row. Henderson’s presence is invaluable, offering both lineout prowess and commanding leadership under pressure.
The back row is constructed for combat, featuring David McCann at blindside flanker, Nick Timoney at openside, and the exciting Academy forward, Bryn Ward, at number eight. Ward, in particular, comes into the match on a high, having earned the Player of the Match accolade in his recent BKT United Rugby Championship outing against Munster, showcasing his immense potential.
In the crucial half-back pairing, Nathan Doak (9) and Jack Murphy (10) will orchestrate the attack, tasked with controlling the pace against a formidable Stade Francais defence.
The Backline Blueprint
The backline sees Zac Ward anchoring the left wing, while Robert Baloucoune returns to the starting XV on the right flank, bringing his trademark explosive pace and carrying ability. The midfield partnership is a robust one, with Stuart McCloskey starting alongside James Hume, forming a centre combination capable of both defensive solidity and creative attacking impetus.
Completing the starting fifteen is Jacob Stockdale at full-back. Stockdale’s aerial skills and counter-attacking threat from the backfield will be vital against the expected tactical kicking from the Parisian side.
Bench Strength and Finishing Power
Richie Murphy has selected a 5:3 split among the replacements, ensuring strong cover across the forward pack and the backline for the final quarter. The forward contingent on the bench includes the veteran hooker Rob Herring, who brings significant Test experience, alongside Eric O’Sullivan and Scott Wilson in the front row reserves. Matthew Dalton and Sean Reffell offer further options for the breakdown and groundwork.
The backline cover is provided by Conor McKee, Jake Flannery, and Jude Postlethwaite. The ability to introduce fresh legs and different skill sets from the bench will be crucial in maintaining momentum against a Stade Francais team known for its fitness.
Anticipation Builds Ahead of Kick-Off
This fixture is more than just a pool match; it is a statement game. Ulster needs to demonstrate their championship credentials against one of the leading French clubs in the competition. The atmosphere at Affidea Stadium is expected to be electric as supporters rally behind their province in this winner-takes-all scenario for pool dominance.
Fans unable to attend can catch all the action live on Premier Sports, as Ulster looks to cement its position as a major contender in the EPCR Challenge Cup. The match kicks off at 1 pm on Saturday, 17th January.
Ulster Match Day Squad Details
The selected squad reflects a squad ready for the challenge:
- 1. Angus Bell (5 appearances)
- 2. Tom Stewart (65 appearances)
- 3. Tom O’Toole (133 appearances)
- 4. Iain Henderson (Capt) (167 appearances)
- 5. Harry Sheridan (51 appearances)
- 6. David McCann (78 appearances)
- 7. Nick Timoney (175 appearances)
- 8. Bryn Ward (7 appearances)
- 9. Nathan Doak (98 appearances)
- 10. Jack Murphy (22 appearances)
- 11. Zac Ward (17 appearances)
- 12. Stuart McCloskey (210 appearances)
- 13. James Hume (108 appearances)
- 14. Robert Baloucoune (76 appearances)
- 15. Jacob Stockdale (141 appearances)
Replacements: 16. Rob Herring (261), 17. Eric O’Sullivan (130), 18. Scott Wilson (44), 19. Matthew Dalton (17), 20. Sean Reffell (14), 21. Conor McKee (10), 22. Jake Flannery (29), 23. Jude Postlethwaite (38).
The focus now shifts from selection to execution as Ulster prepares for one of the most significant European fixtures of their recent campaign.