Ulster 2015/2016

First topic message reminder :

Thought i would give ol' GC a helping hand and try and get Ulster types looking inward at what has been a tricky season and looking forward to next season and how we should improve. Dont have time to put down all my own theories but will do so later. This thread is a matawalu free zone btw!

Well, fullback really isn't covered at all. Should Henshaw move to Leinster the only viable alternatives to Kearney will continue to be deployed in the centre.

rodders wrote:

Munchkin wrote:According to someone on the other forum, Munster signing Moore was blocked and Ulster signing a forward was blocked, but not Vito.
If Nucifora/IRFU are now blocking top NIQ signings, then why allow Piutau?

I agree that makes no sense - but wasn't the Piutau deal done pre Nucifera?

If not maybe its because with Kearney and Felix Jones there the IRFU felt fullback was covered and with Munster signing Chisolm that preventing signing another lock as per the rules and Ulster already have Williams in the backrow.

I don't know, rodders, but Nucifora started with Ireland on June 2014, and Ulster confirmed Piutau on April 2015.

Kearney is going to need to be replaced sooner, rather than later, and although Jones was a good player, he still had much to prove at that level.

The thing with Williams is that he is also NIQ, and I can't understand why Nucifora wouldn't allow us to replace him with another, unless the intention was to keep them both. I doubt that though.

With regards to Nucifora's current role with IRFU, his CV is hardly sparkling. He was sacked by Brumbies because of his development policy....
As much as I agree that much work needs to be done in development, weakening the Provinces to do so is counter productive to the long term goals of IRFU. The IRFU need the Provinces to be strong because we need the support strong provinces bring, and the inspiration that provides to get youth involved. I agree with the current NIQ limit and, to a point, with what IRFU are trying to do, but there's a balance to be struck between Union and Province, and if these reports are true I think the current balance is damaging to the Provinces, and eventually the IRFU.

I agree with you Munch.

Good Now we just have to hope that IRFU agrees with us as well, and soon.

The more I hear of big brother interference the more I'm convinced that it's counterproductive.

Ulster (+ the other 3 provinces) needs the cross pollination of foreign imports to breed a healthy team culture. If the team was completely homegrown then more players would be leaving in search for greener grass and wider experience. Having 5 guys out of 45 who aren't IQ is a small number, and there should be little restriction on who or what position.

Having two NIQs for one position is obviously not to be allowed but blocking players from signing who will bring a lot to a team is patently wrong.

The Great Aukster wrote:Having 5 guys out of 45 who aren't IQ is a small number, and there should be little restriction on who or what position.

I think 5 is to high Aukster - presumably if you recruit NIEs you want them to play so that means a 3rd of the starting XV are NIE. Potentially that could be the whole tight 5 or 3/4 line plus half backs.

For me a maximum of 3 (including project) is the right balance - the compromise being the IRFU splash the cash to attract genuine top quality players and top up wages to compete with the French and English sides.

Blocking players of the quality of Vito and Moore makes no sense to me, so there needs to be some common sense.

Munchkin wrote:According to someone on the other forum, Munster signing Moore was blocked and Ulster signing a forward was blocked, but not Vito.
If Nucifora/IRFU are now blocking top NIQ signings, then why allow Piutau? That makes no sense. So Nucifora, in his infinite wisdom, allows a big money signing in the backs, which we are hardly short of, and prevents a top backrow signing, which we are in desperate need of. If the forward he blocked was a backrow.
It also reflects badly on Ulster, or any of the Provinces, to go hunting for a big signing, agree terms with that big signing, and then be blocked from signing them. What sort of message does that send out?
It also doesn't make sense to block the big signings, and allow us to bring in some of the dross (no pun intended) that we have.
I don't know what the Provinces have been doing with the academies, but it does look like they needed a kick in the @rse. I'm just not convinced this is the way to do it. Better to threaten to withdraw funding, I think.

I don't know how reliable that poster is given that Munster and Foley have both said they never tried to sign Moore, maybe under pressure from IRFU or maybe someone is telling porkies

marty2086 wrote:

Munchkin wrote:According to someone on the other forum, Munster signing Moore was blocked and Ulster signing a forward was blocked, but not Vito.
If Nucifora/IRFU are now blocking top NIQ signings, then why allow Piutau? That makes no sense. So Nucifora, in his infinite wisdom, allows a big money signing in the backs, which we are hardly short of, and prevents a top backrow signing, which we are in desperate need of. If the forward he blocked was a backrow.
It also reflects badly on Ulster, or any of the Provinces, to go hunting for a big signing, agree terms with that big signing, and then be blocked from signing them. What sort of message does that send out?
It also doesn't make sense to block the big signings, and allow us to bring in some of the dross (no pun intended) that we have.
I don't know what the Provinces have been doing with the academies, but it does look like they needed a kick in the @rse. I'm just not convinced this is the way to do it. Better to threaten to withdraw funding, I think.

I don't know how reliable that poster is given that Munster and Foley have both said they never tried to sign Moore, maybe under pressure from IRFU or maybe someone is telling porkies

Well sure even BOD mentioned they'd signed him on BT Sport.

rodders wrote:

marty2086 wrote:

Munchkin wrote:According to someone on the other forum, Munster signing Moore was blocked and Ulster signing a forward was blocked, but not Vito.
If Nucifora/IRFU are now blocking top NIQ signings, then why allow Piutau? That makes no sense. So Nucifora, in his infinite wisdom, allows a big money signing in the backs, which we are hardly short of, and prevents a top backrow signing, which we are in desperate need of. If the forward he blocked was a backrow.
It also reflects badly on Ulster, or any of the Provinces, to go hunting for a big signing, agree terms with that big signing, and then be blocked from signing them. What sort of message does that send out?
It also doesn't make sense to block the big signings, and allow us to bring in some of the dross (no pun intended) that we have.
I don't know what the Provinces have been doing with the academies, but it does look like they needed a kick in the @rse. I'm just not convinced this is the way to do it. Better to threaten to withdraw funding, I think.

I don't know how reliable that poster is given that Munster and Foley have both said they never tried to sign Moore, maybe under pressure from IRFU or maybe someone is telling porkies

Well sure even BOD mentioned they'd signed him on BT Sport.  

He is fallible

http://www.sportsjoe.ie/rugby/stephen-moore-was-not-on-munster-radar-but-robbie-henshaw-certainly-is/51521

The Australian hooker, somebody said that to me. There isn’t anything in that. It has happened to us in the past around the media as well, where names are thrown out.

rodders wrote:

The Great Aukster wrote:Having 5 guys out of 45 who aren't IQ is a small number, and there should be little restriction on who or what position.

I think 5 is to high Aukster - presumably if you recruit NIEs you want them to play so that means a 3rd of the starting XV are NIE. Potentially that could be the whole tight 5 or 3/4 line plus half backs.

For me a maximum of 3 (including project) is the right balance - the compromise being the IRFU splash the cash to attract genuine top quality players and top up wages to compete with the French and English sides.

Blocking players of the quality of Vito and Moore makes no sense to me, so there needs to be some common sense.

By the law of averages, it's fairly likely that they won't all be available at the same time (injuries, call-ups etc.). Secondly their game-time will have to be managed as they can't play every game. Finally it's unlikely that all five will be clear first choice in their position, because that would be difficult to afford even if that standard could be recruited in the first place.

I agree that they should be sprinkled throughout the team rather than have say a NIQ tight five because their experience is needed in games throughout rather than en bloc in one area and secondly it transfers more knowledge to the understudies.

marty2086 wrote:

Munchkin wrote:According to someone on the other forum, Munster signing Moore was blocked and Ulster signing a forward was blocked, but not Vito.
If Nucifora/IRFU are now blocking top NIQ signings, then why allow Piutau? That makes no sense. So Nucifora, in his infinite wisdom, allows a big money signing in the backs, which we are hardly short of, and prevents a top backrow signing, which we are in desperate need of. If the forward he blocked was a backrow.
It also reflects badly on Ulster, or any of the Provinces, to go hunting for a big signing, agree terms with that big signing, and then be blocked from signing them. What sort of message does that send out?
It also doesn't make sense to block the big signings, and allow us to bring in some of the dross (no pun intended) that we have.
I don't know what the Provinces have been doing with the academies, but it does look like they needed a kick in the @rse. I'm just not convinced this is the way to do it. Better to threaten to withdraw funding, I think.

I don't know how reliable that poster is given that Munster and Foley have both said they never tried to sign Moore, maybe under pressure from IRFU or maybe someone is telling porkies

I don't know marty, although those in the media seem fairly convinced. Foley denied he heard anything, but also said that even if he did he wouldn't tell. We will probably never know the truth of it, but if Ulster don't make a big backrow signing for next season I would say that's pretty strong evidence that signings are being blocked.

Its all turning very strange with Moore anyway

http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/dec/17/brumbies-exceedingly-disappointed-by-stephen-moores-decision-to-join-reds

He made 'unique demands' of the Brumbies, which they 'moved heaven and earth to meet', his agent agreed to the deal and Moore said he wanted to finish his career a Brumbie then resigned for the Reds

Could be that whatever his unique demands were Nucifora wasn't willing to sign off on?

Well this is the thing with hearsay as you don't know what has gone on behind the scenes - it seems odd that the IRFU would block a player or Moores caliber but then with Best, Cronin and Strauss all getting on maybe they see hooker as a priority position to get IQ players 1st team rugby...

I believe it happened but just wonder on the why. I can understand why they wouldn't be keen on Ulster signing an NIE back 5 forward, at least whilst Williams and VDM are still here.

Henderson and to a lesser Touhy's injury gives things a different dynamic though. O'Connor looks a quality player but leaves us very thin - I really rate Muldowney and would love to see him switch north but can't see it happening.

I'm guessing Nagle is a lost cause .... Stander looks like he was born to play for Ulster too ....

Isn't his middle name Johann? Sounds perfect to me also maybe Herring could go show him how close the accents are?
Nagle finishes his course this year doesn't he? Maybe he is an option?

Anyone know anywhere I can pick up 1 or 2 tickets to the Munster game in January already got mine but my friend didn't take my advice of get in early and it's sold out.

neilthom7 wrote:Anyone know anywhere I can pick up 1 or 2 tickets to the Munster game in January already got mine but my friend didn't take my advice of get in early and it's sold out.

The Fly and Laverys are running buses to the game, still had tickets left last I looked. Actually a better deal getting it through them sometimes as you get free food and drink and transport to and from the game

marty2086 wrote:

neilthom7 wrote:Anyone know anywhere I can pick up 1 or 2 tickets to the Munster game in January already got mine but my friend didn't take my advice of get in early and it's sold out.

The Fly and Laverys are running buses to the game, still had tickets left last I looked. Actually a better deal getting it through them sometimes as you get free food and drink and transport to and from the game

Excellant I will have a look. Thanks Marty

Had a look a the match stats from today, Paddy Jackson made most metres ball in hand of anyone on the pitch with 73m. Nice to see him playing with such confidence.

Gilroy out injured: http://www.the42.ie/craig-gilroy-hospital-pass-ulster-toulouse-2516645-Dec2015/

Fracture eye socket surely can't be a short recovery.

Gilroy will be out for a few weeks. Disappointing for himself, and Ulster. Scholes played for most of the game against Toulon, and did fairly well. It's a great chance for him to make the most of his opportunity, over the next few weeks.

So that's Bowe, Payne, Nelson and now Gilroy who would be playing in the back three if fit - who says Ulster don't need Piutau!

Ulster number eight Nick Williams will join Cardiff Blues on a long-term contract before the start of the 2016-17 season.

Williams, 32, has scored 13 tries in 67 appearances during four years with Ulster.

The New Zealander has also played for Auckland Blues, Munster and Aironi.

"I'm excited about what Cardiff Blues are looking to achieve, both on and off the field in the coming years," Williams said.

Cardiff Blues head coach Danny Wilson said Williams has been one of the "standout performers" in the Pro12 during the last few seasons.

"I spoke to Danny at length about the region and his plans," added Williams. "I'm now looking forward to using my experience to help the team and getting stuck in.

"I've enjoyed my time in Belfast and it's been a successful time at Ulster - I'll be giving everything until the end of this season for the team."

By the way, I cannot tell you how tempted I was to give that its own thread under the title "Cardiff Blues Eagerly Snatch Up Aged Patchell- Batterer".

He's been hot and cold at Ulster. And whilst I'm sure we are signing an upgrade I can't help but feel nervous and unsettled at the thought of him playing against us!

Thankyou for your service Nick. I've always loved watching you despite your discipline at times. Definately a player who will remain in fond memories of ulster fans for years to come!

I just hope Nick does indeed give his all to the end of the season and doesn't just take this as a chance to rest. He has indeed been hot and cold and sometimes very stupid but you can't help but love the big fella so it's a little sad to see him go but I can't wait to see who his replacement will be

Pity - just as he's found his top form again he's off.

Williams had a poor season with us last year but when on song he's made a massive impact. All in all a very good signing for us, good luck to him in Cardiff.

I suppose it frees up an NIE spot at least.

I'm a bit saddened by the news. On top form he has been great for us, and his wrecking ball aggression has been a big plus on many occasions. Unfortunately that aggression has spilled over to indiscipline at times, making him a liability. Not this season though, even though he did get pinged in one game, but unfairly so.
The new signing had better be an upgrade.

In many ways, its good news as it means the new signing to replace him must be cleared and ready.

At least you'd hope so. Letting him go without a new signing locked in would not reflect well on us at all.

With our recent history in dealing with such things I'll not be holding my breath but fingers crossed.

I'm saddened to see big Nick go when he's on rampaging form. Bye Nick, it's been damn fine watching you smash defences.

Garces to ref our game with Sarries

Pity it wasn't our home game.

Jaysus my dog could have reffed the home game better, least he still has a set

Ah, Garces isn't that bad. I was thinking more about how if this was our home game the presence of Garces might fire the home crowd up a bit more than usual.

Still, it will be interesting to see how he refs this game.

Munchkin wrote:Ah, Garces isn't that bad. I was thinking more about how if this was our home game the presence of Garces might fire the home crowd up a bit more than usual.

Still, it will be interesting to see how he refs this game.

In fairness I didn't put it well but I was actually talking about Poite with that comment I'm sure Garces will do just fine well maybe lol

Yep, Poite's not the best.

It will be interesting to see what team we send over to Sarries. As much as I would love for us to go over there and at least give a good account of ourselves, it isn't a must win game to get into the quarters.

Munchkin wrote:Yep, Poite's not the best.

It will be interesting to see what team we send over to Sarries. As much as I would love for us to go over there and at least give a good account of ourselves, it isn't a must win game to get into the quarters.

Whether or not its a must-win game really depends on what happens in our rescheduled match against Oyonnax! We as fans can take that one for granted I suppose, but the team better not... There's nothing to suggest we can't get four tries over there but we have to actually do that before we worry about what we need to get at Sarries.

The big worry is that the injures we have leave us unable to rotate too much over this crucial period. We've been able to rest McCall and Best completely and Henry is still being allowed time to recover, but its 12 out of best uninjured 15. We could really do with getting a few guys back for Munster.

I think we wil get 10 points from the Two Oyonnax games. Even if we only get the four points away, and five at home, that should be enough to qualify. Because of our injuries, to go after Sarries is too much a risk, I think. You're right though, there may not be much of an option to rest players. Hopefully Cave and Olding are back soon.
I'm more worried about the Connacht game than the Munster one. Both will be tough, but I think away to Connacht will be tougher than Munster at home. Maybe Munster will send their second team? Hope so.:
Anywho, here's the team v Connacht, for those who don't already know:

(15-9): L Ludik, A Trimble, L Marshall, S McCloskey, R Scholes, P Jackson, R Pienaar;
(1-8): A Warwick, R Herring (captain), W Herbst, A O'Connor, F van der Merwe, R Diack, S Reidy, N Williams;
Replacements (16-23): J Andrew, C Black, R Lutton, S Mulholland, R Wilson, P Marshall, I Humphreys, S Arnold.

Ulster expected to name a largely second choice team for our game against Oyonnax. Really stupid of us not to have rested players at home to Munster;

http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/european-cup/neil-doak-ulster-must-shuffle-deck-ahead-of-oyonnax-1.2486117

Especially with the benefit of hindsight.

The last time we sent a largely 2nd string to an away match we beat Munster well

Looks like Henderson isn't recovering as fast as hoped.

Neither is Bowe

More backrowers getting snapped up (Burger to Saracens) ... limiting the number of 'top class' backrowers still about with no confirmed plans for next year.

It's either a signing beyond our wildest dreams (eg. Pocock), or somebody below the high standards those in the know have hinted to us.

IF (and a big if) it is Pocock... UR should give Rhuidri Murphy a contract until retirement, even if he only occasionally plays for the Ravens... and instead of attending training he should be allowed to travel the world on behalf of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board!

Also... I see some joker has put Ulster down as his current team on Wikipedia.

Pocock aside, we are looking at Vito or Parisse. Parisse maybe a bit old getting. Vito... well he faces stiff opposition for all black shirt - has maybe accepted he will probably miss out in 2019, so decided to cash in for a few years. News stories in December linking him with La Rochelle, but I can see nothing concrete in that.

But .... sure.... its probably somebody underwhelming...

Notch wrote:Ulster expected to name a largely second choice team for our game against Oyonnax. Really stupid of us not to have rested players at home to Munster;

http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/rugby/european-cup/neil-doak-ulster-must-shuffle-deck-ahead-of-oyonnax-1.2486117

Especially with the benefit of hindsight.

Yes, there seems to be literally no beginning to the excitement amongst you guys about this match:
https://www.606v2.com/t61731-champions-cup-pool-1-oyonnax-v-ulster-10-january

Another IQ Lock on the way.

A quote from t'other forum

Payne has been added to the champions Cup squad as well replacing Nelson. Meaning I guess he may very well be back in the next week or so

Any chance of Payne coming back as a full-back?

scrummy, I'd wondered the same even if its just for this run of games to rest Ludik as he did seem out on his feet against Munster. With Nelson injured and Gilroy needed on the wing Payne may be needed at 15 at some point in the near future

Williams now likely to be out of Sarries game. Whatever happened to Thomas Anderson?

New Lock???

From Harlequins???

Who is it? Where is Geoff??

Pete330v2 wrote:New Lock???

From Harlequins???

Who is it? Where is Geoff??

If I was to hazard a guess it could be Kieran Treadwell, who's played for Ireland and England at U-18 level?