Celebratory scenes erupted as Ulster’s Nick Timoney scored the decisive fourth try
Investec Champions Cup: Ulster vs Racing 92
Ulster (21) 31
Tries: Timoney (2), McCloskey, Rea; Conversions: Cooney (4); Penalty: Cooney
Racing (5) 15
Tries: Tarrit (2), Le Garrec
In a stunning display of rugby, Ulster claimed a commanding bonus-point victory against Racing 92 during a vibrant Investec Champions Cup evening at the Kingspan Stadium.
Breaking their three-game losing streak, Ulster showcased a spectacular four-try performance, elevating them in the European competition.
Nick Timoney, with a try in each half, along with contributions from Stuart McCloskey and Matty Rea, led the scoring for the home team.
Janick Tarrit’s double and Nolann Le Garrec’s effort added points for Racing, albeit in a losing cause.
The star-laden Racing team, coached by ex-Leinster’s Stuart Lancaster, was anticipated to pose a significant challenge. However, their frequent turnovers and 12 penalties led to a second consecutive defeat in the tournament.
Ulster, on the other hand, demonstrated determination and strategy, bouncing back from recent losses against Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Bath. Their commitment to an expansive style of play was evident, and they were close to achieving the last 16 qualification they sought.
Their strategic use of quick-tap penalties led to three of their four tries, and their solid defense prevented Racing from securing a potentially vital four-try bonus point.
Jacob Stockdale competes for the ball
Both teams made errors, but the match was a thrilling, fast-paced affair. The home crowd’s support seemed to elevate Ulster’s performance as they dominated both territory and possession. Racing struggled to penetrate Ulster’s ’22’ in the initial 16 minutes.
Ulster’s ball control allowed them to pressure the French team into errors, with James Hume and McCloskey effectively exploiting space.
Despite some line-out issues, Ulster capitalized on strong set-piece plays, with the first two tries stemming from quick tap penalties taken by Timoney and McCloskey.
An early maul set the stage for Timoney’s opening score, while McCloskey powered through from close range for the second try, giving Ulster a 14-0 lead.
Racing’s counter-attacking flair was evident, yet an invalidated try by Le Garrec due to crossing was a setback. However, a brilliant cross-field kick led to Le Garrec eventually scoring a well-deserved try.
Both teams showed a penchant for launching attacks from deep within their territory. Ulster narrowly missed additional scoring opportunities but eventually extended their lead with Rea’s effortless try.
World Cup champions take the field
Racing’s debutant Siya Kolisi and Ulster’s Steven Kitsoff, both World Cup winners with South Africa, were in the spotlight. Kolisi had a muted first half, while Kitsoff’s impactful 70-minute performance contributed to his team’s success.
Coach Dan McFarland’s Ulster did not falter in maintaining their first-half advantage. Timoney’s early second-half try, mirroring his first, underscored Ulster’s dominance in forward play, leaving Racing struggling for answers.
James Hume tackles Gael Fickou
Racing’s persistence eventually paid off with Tarrit’s try, but the missed conversion kept Ulster comfortably ahead at 28-10.
Stockdale, always vigilant, nearly turned the game with a significant interception, though Le Garrec managed to halt his run.
Despite Tarrit’s second try for Racing, another failed conversion left them with an insurmountable deficit.
Ulster maintained their lead, securing a victory that could be a springboard for the crucial upcoming season phase.
Ulster: Lowry, Baloucoune, Hume, McCloskey, Stockdale, Burns, Cooney; Kitshoff, Herring, O’Toole; O’Connor, Henderson (capt); Ewers, Timoney, Matty Rea
Substitutes: Stewart, O’Sullivan, S Wilson, Treadwell, Sheridan, Doak, Flannery, S Moore
Racing 92: Spring, Arundell, Fickou, Chavancy, Imhoff, Gibert, Le Garrec; Kolingar, Tarrit, Nyakane; Chouzenoux, Rowlands; Woki, Kolisi, Lauret
Substitutes: Ben Arous, Gogichashvili, Kharaishvili, Sanconnie, Diallo, Baudonne, Tedder, Tabuavou
Referee: Luke Pearce
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby victory Ulster
What was the final score in the Investec Champions Cup match between Ulster and Racing 92?
Ulster secured a commanding 31-15 victory over Racing 92 in the Investec Champions Cup match.
Who scored tries for Ulster in their victory over Racing 92?
In Ulster’s victory, tries were scored by Nick Timoney (2), Stuart McCloskey, and Matty Rea. John Cooney contributed with conversions and a penalty.
Did any players from Racing 92 score during the match against Ulster?
Yes, for Racing 92, Janick Tarrit scored two tries and Nolann Le Garrec added one try.
How did Ulster’s strategy contribute to their win against Racing 92?
Ulster’s strategy involved using quick-tap penalties effectively, leading to three of their four tries, and demonstrating strong defensive skills to deny Racing a bonus point.
Were there any notable players from the World Cup in the Ulster vs Racing 92 match?
Yes, World Cup winners Siya Kolisi played for Racing 92, and Steven Kitsoff played for Ulster, both having significant roles in the match.
More about Rugby victory Ulster
- Ulster Rugby Official Website
- Investec Champions Cup Information
- Racing 92 Team Overview
- European Professional Club Rugby Updates
- World Rugby Player Profiles
6 comments
Surprised at how well Ulster bounced back after those losses. Shows true grit, That’s what rugby’s all about, right?
totally agree with the above, Ulster’s quick tap penalties were genius! But, Racing’s defense… needs some serious work, no?
Did anyone else notice how Ulster controlled the ball? it’s like they had glue on their hands, Racing couldn’t get a grip. Literally!
Gotta say, Timoney was on fire. two tries? Amazing performance! Ulster’s back in the game baby.
Not the best day for Racing, huh? Expected more from Kolisi and the team, but Ulster just outplayed them, simple as that.
wow, Ulster really showed some class out there, totally dominating the game. Racing 92 seemed a bit off pace, didn’t they?