Ulster overpower Bulls to seal bonus-point URC win
Ulster completed a convincing URC victory over the Bulls at a packed Belfast venue, moving clear after a balanced first half to claim a 28-7 success. The result not only delivered two league points but also a valuable bonus, signaling a growing sense of authority from Richie Murphy’s side.
First-half stalemate, second-half surge
The visit of the Bulls started with equal intensity, with both packs testing each other and the defences holding firm. A 7-7 halftime scoreline reflected a tight contest where ball in hand and set-piece battles were crucial. The second half, however, saw Ulster seize the initiative and translate pressure into points, a shift that underscored their enhanced cohesion and execution.
Tries settle the tie
Ulster crossed for three tries that ultimately defined the match. Juarno Augustus powered over for the opening try, giving the hosts an early autumn of momentum. Rob Herring followed with a score that reinforced Ulster’s control, and Cormac Izuchukwu added the late icing, ensuring a bonus-point finish as the game wound down.
Captain’s view: front-foot pressure pays off
Ulster captain Iain Henderson spoke after the final whistle, reflecting on the team’s performance and what it means for the season ahead. “Yeah, I thought we did really well. We really wanted to stick it to them up front and I think we did that for most of the game. We did well in our maul and out scrum, we did really well there, against a pack that usually dominates teams,” Henderson said.
“Issues we’ve faced in training are finally translating into 80 minutes on the pitch. We know what we can produce internally, and it’s encouraging to see that emerge in competitive matches.”
Defensive resilience and late pressure
The match wasn’t without its nervy moments as Bulls attempts to spark a comeback were stymied by Ulster’s defence and a disciplined kicking game. Bulls did create a late chance with a scrum penalty near Ulster’s try line, and a sustained phase of pressure briefly raised the possibility of a consolation. Ulster’s turnover and a composed exit strategy underlined their growing maturity as a team.
What this win means for Ulster
For Ulster, the win is about more than the points tally. It signals a team that can impose itself when it matters, both in the tight exchanges and in the wide channels. The bonus-point victory adds momentum to a season that is beginning to take shape under Murphy, with players showing a clearer understanding of the game plan and a willingness to execute at higher intensity for longer stretches.
Match facts and moments
- Final score: Ulster 28, Bulls 7
- Tries: Juarno Augustus, Rob Herring, Cormac Izuchukwu
- Key moment: Ulster’s early dominance up front helping secure territory and momentum after halftime
As the stadium emptied, Ulster will take confidence from a performance that combined grit and game plan execution. The result suggests a team growing in authority as they press for consistency across the URC schedule.
Thanks for joining us for coverage of Ulster’s victory. We’ll keep you updated with more from Belfast as the season unfolds.
