Ulster Announce Squad to Face Glasgow Warriors Tomorrow

Ulster has announced a strong 15 to take on the warriors tomorrow. A strong front row sees emerging star hooker Bradley Roberts clinch the starting position in Ulster’s first tournament game this season. This comes off the back of his fantastic form in the pre-season against Saracens. Roberts is supported by two Ulster stalwarts – Marty Moore and Andy Warwick. The prop pairing not only brings stability as scrum time but strong on the ball running and big hits in defence.

In the second row the two reliable locks, Alan O’Connor and Sam Carter pull on the 4 and 5 shirts. Alan O’Connor as ever brings an “enforcer” type presence and plenty of leadership to back up the captain, Carter.

In the back row Greg Jones and Sean Reidy are supported by hefty presence of Nick Timoney. Timoney will be all too aware of Vermeulen’s impact on selection so expect him to come out strong and make some big plays and big hits to stamp his authority on the 8 shirt early and keep selection very competitive.

The reliable half back pairing sees Ulster talisman John Cooney pair up once again with the reliable Billy Burns. Expect to see a strong kicking from Burns. Taking advantage of the new 50:22 rule and expect the unexpected with Cooney. Snipes off the ruck, up the blindside and over the whitewash are always a possibility with Cooney making for some exciting rugby.

Another seemingly immovable pairing in McCloskey and Hume, McCloskey brings heavy running and great height to claim wide kicks from Burns. Hume is always quick on his feet and breaks the gain line almost every time he has the ball in his hands.

The back three sees Stockdale at 11 (Thank you Dan!), Baloucoune at 14 and McIlroy at 15. Ulster, no matter the configuration, always has a back line that screams danger and excitement. Stockdale in the position he’s most comfortable with is fantastic to see. Don’t get me wrong, I think he’s a good fullback but he’s a great winger. He presents great lines, ability to recollect ball and I wouldn’t want to be tackling him. Baloucoune and McIlroy are both incredibly fast and light on their feet, Stockdale is fast but brings a bit more mass to break the gain line even with no space in front of him.

All round an incredibly strong squad that will be so exciting to watch. Should be a cracker opener to a hopefully cracker campaign.