RUGBY: Ulster squad named for Clermont clash
Last updated 21st Jan 2022
The Ulster coaching team has selected the match-day squad to face French giants, ASM Clermont Auvergne at Kingspan Stadium on Saturday (5.30pm kick-off).
Eric O’Sullivan is one of two changes to the starting XV that defeated Northampton Saints last Sunday and booked Ulster’s place in the last 16. The loosehead comes in alongside Rob Herring at hooker and Marty Moore at tighthead.
Alan O’Connor will skipper the side and partners Kieran Treadwell in the second row. Marcus Rea has retained his starting berth at blindside flanker, as have Nick Timoney at openside and Duane Vermeulen at Number Eight.
Mike Lowry is named at full-back alongside Robert Baloucoune and Ethan McIlroy on the wings. Angus Curtis comes in to start at centre alongside James Hume. Nathan Doak and Billy Burns will form the half-back pairing.
Bradley Roberts, Jack McGrath, Tom O’Toole, Sam Carter and Greg Jones will provide forward cover off the bench, with David Shanahan, Ben Moxham and Craig Gilroy named as back line replacements.
Ulster team to play ASM Clermont Auvergne, Heineken Champions Cup Round 4, Saturday 22 January at Kingspan Stadium, kick-off 5.30pm, live on BT Sport:
(15-9) Mike Lowry, Robert Baloucoune, James Hume, Angus Curtis, Ethan McIlroy, Billy Burns, Nathan Doak;
(1-8) Eric O’Sullivan, Rob Herring, Marty Moore, Alan O’Connor (Capt.), Kieran Treadwell, Marcus Rea, Nick Timoney, Duane Vermeulen.
Replacements: Bradley Roberts, Jack McGrath, Tom O’Toole, Sam Carter, Greg Jones, David Shanahan, Ben Moxham, Craig Gilroy.