In a thrilling United Rugby Championship clash, Ulster pulled off a stunning second-half comeback to hand reigning champions Munster their first defeat of the season, winning 21-14 in an electrifying match in Belfast.
Early Munster Dominance
The game started with a bang as Munster made a blazing start. Craig Casey, wearing the number nine jersey, wasted no time in making his presence felt, scoring two tries in the first half. The first came just nine minutes into the match, as Casey darted over the try line following a scrum, with Jack Crowley adding the conversion. Munster’s early pressure had paid off, and Ulster found themselves trailing.
Ulster had their moments, with Ethan McIlroy coming close to scoring, but Munster’s defense held firm. McIlroy’s attempt ended with a dropped ball over the line, and he required treatment for a head injury. Shane Daly was sent to the sin bin for his involvement in the tackle, and Nathan Doak took the opportunity to put Ulster on the scoreboard with a successful penalty kick.
However, Munster wasn’t done yet. Casey continued his impressive performance, burrowing over for his second try in the 18th minute, once again converted by Crowley. Despite their struggles against Munster’s power, Ulster managed to strike back before halftime. Jacob Stockdale, in fine form, collected Billy Burns’ well-placed kick to the corner and crossed the line. Doak couldn’t convert, and Ulster went into halftime trailing 14-8.
Ulster’s Spectacular Comeback
The second half was a different story altogether. Ulster emerged from the break with renewed determination, and it was Doak who led the charge. He kicked a penalty, narrowing the gap to just three points.
The introduction of Ireland duo Iain Henderson and Rob Herring provided experience and energy to the Ulster side, and they made an immediate impact. Henderson embarked on a marauding run that threatened to break Munster’s defense, but he was eventually tackled by a sea of red jerseys.
Ulster had a golden opportunity when they opted to kick a penalty to the corner, but their plans were foiled when Herring was penalized for a dummy throw. However, the home team drew level on the 63rd minute when Doak displayed his kicking prowess once again, nailing a superb long-range penalty after Munster conceded a penalty at the breakdown.
With momentum on their side, Ulster thought they had scored through Rob Baloucoune, but the referee brought play back. The crucial moment arrived with just 11 minutes left on the clock. Nick Timoney powered his way over the try line from the back of a scrum, and Doak’s conversion put Ulster ahead.
Heroic Defense Secures Victory
Munster desperately sought a late score, pounding the Ulster try line. However, Iain Henderson made a vital contribution, managing to get under the ball and hold Scott Buckley up over the line.
Despite Munster’s persistent efforts, Rob Herring, celebrating his landmark appearance, won a decisive turnover that sealed the victory for Ulster. The home players, after a herculean defensive effort, dropped to their knees and backs in celebration.
This gripping encounter showcased the resilience and determination of the Ulster team as they staged a remarkable comeback to topple the defending champions, Munster. With the URC season in full swing, rugby fans can expect more thrilling clashes in the coming weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about URC Rugby Upset
Q: Who scored the first try for Munster in the match?
A: Craig Casey scored the first try for Munster just nine minutes into the game.
Q: How did Ulster respond after trailing 14-8 at halftime?
A: Ulster launched a spectacular second-half comeback, led by Nathan Doak’s accurate kicking and the introduction of experienced players like Iain Henderson and Rob Herring.
Q: What was the final score of the match?
A: Ulster secured a 21-14 victory over Munster, marking a remarkable comeback and ending Munster’s unbeaten start to the season.
Q: Who made a crucial defensive play to hold Munster out in the final minutes?
A: Iain Henderson played a pivotal role, managing to get under the ball and hold Scott Buckley up over the Ulster try line in the closing moments of the match.
Q: What was the significance of Rob Herring’s performance in this game?
A: Rob Herring celebrated a landmark appearance and played a decisive role in securing victory for Ulster, winning a crucial turnover in the closing stages of the match.
More about URC Rugby Upset
- BBC Sport – Ulster 21-14 Munster: Hosts beat holders after second-half comeback
- URC Official Website
- Ulster Rugby Official Website
- Munster Rugby Official Website
2 comments
Nail-biter! Ulster’s defense came up huge!
Doak’s kicking was on point! Ulster made Munster work hard for it!