The clock is ticking down towards the start of another new season. In only four days we’ll all get a look at the new and improved Ulster and hopefully some of our questions will be answered.
Unlike Parky, I still remain positive for the season ahead and I’m particularly looking forward to see how the “made in Ulster” set up is going to cope on the big stage.
At this level, with so many squads of similar standard, it’s going to be a fine line between success and failure. I firmly believe that games are won, first an foremost, in the head and with a little confidence an average side can become a great side and it’s here, with McLaughlin, that Ulster have the edge.
The style of rugby that the coaching team pick is going to be interesting and it’s here where I think Ulster have to back themselves and play a more attacking game. We’re still fairly lightweight in the pack and we need to minimise the time spent at the breakdown, so a reversion to the pod based system may be called for, don’t over commit, and rely on our first up defence.
The selection at half back is going to be crucial and my personal preference would be for Boss and Humphreys to start. In my book Humphreys is one of the most gifted out-half’s in the Magners and his criminal underuse last season must be corrected. If Ulster play an open attacking game his undoubted talents will be maximised and hopefully with big Ferris or Horua riding shotgun his defensive frailties will be minimised.
The loss of Best is a major blow, but not as bad as it could have been. We’ve a more than adequate stand in with the underrated Brady and Kyriacou looked useful enough in his time with the Turnips. What worries me most, apart from the extent of Rory’s injury of course, is the doom and gloom of “non–budgeted expense” being peddled by the Belfast Telegraph on Ulster Rugby’s behalf. I know times are hard, but not to budget for the loss of a major player in this highly abrasive sport is unprofessional to say the least. It’s not as though it’s an uncommon occurrence and you would think that some sort of contingency planning and insurance would be in place!
The loss of Best will have more impact through his role of captain than his on field play and here the new management team have an opportunity to state their intent for the following season. There’s no doubt that the captaincy should go to a guaranteed start and a lot of people have put their hand up for Botha. However Botha had problems with referees throughout all of last season and until he’s sorted out his engagements at scrum time I feel he’s got enough on his plate. The choice of Boss as captain would be a great statement of intent in my book and after coming through a difficult season last year I firmly believe he’s ready to move up a gear and push hard for his Ireland place.
Bryn Cunningham as an outside bet? Anyone?
Ulster Rugby are still offering their two for one deal for the Falcons and Viadanna home friendlies. Go here for details.
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