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  • 19/06/13
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ULSTER IN NO RUSH TO PROP THINGS UP

Declan Fitzpatrick (right)

Declan Fitzpatrick (right)

  • by Richard Mulligan
 

ULSTER head coach, Mark Anscombe, said the club were not at this stage looking to bring another prop in after Paddy McAllister was ruled out for the remainder of the season.

The Irish Province could look to boost the squad with another signing, more than likely across the water, but Anscombe was confident they had the talent available within the squad.

It is an environment the new man in the hot seat is keen to develop within the club.

McAllister is likely to miss the season after suffering a serious knee injury, which requires surgery, last week in training.

Ulster have Callum Black and Ricky Lutton in the wings and Anscombe is confident they can make the step up as required.

“It is unfortunate for Paddy. He was training well and he was one of several boys I was looking forward to seeing in action,” admitted Anscombe.

“But that is the nature of the game and it can be cruel, but you have to get on with it.

“Callum (Black) had an opportunity last week against Bayonne and did a good job.

“I was impressed with him and went about his work well.

“Someone gets an injury, an international goes away, it creates an opportunity.

“We want to create an environment where the guys are excited about taking those opportunities and having the confidence and not the self doubt that they can play at this level.”

It reflects the attitude behind not looking elsewhere at this stage for a replacement for McAllister beyond the Ravenhill ranks.

“At this stage we have good strength and depth in props.

“Ricky Lutton came over, young guy from the Academy, he did a good job on his 20 minutes, took his opportunity and he handled and acquitted himself well.

“I think we have that area well enough covered within the squad of players we have.”

Although Ulster registered a first victory on French soil last week, albeit in a friendly, Anscombe was playing it down.

“Yes it is always great to get a win any time you play, but it is where we are in May that counts.

“We have Leicester Tigers at home this weekend and we all know there is a bit of good history in previous meetings.

“But these are pre-season games and there are certain things we are looking at ensuring we get from them - the result is not the most important aspect to it, albeit everyone hates to lose at any time.”

Ulster did not name an extended panel yesterday, but it is expected a similar side which played Bayonne will face the English premiership side.

One player who will return to the side is prop, Declan Fitzpatrick, who was on the summer tour with Ireland to New Zealand.

“We have Declan coming back in, so that is likely to be the only addition at this stage,” said Anscombe.

 

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