In their 756th test match, and the 20th meeting between Ireland and Argentina since caps were first awarded on 27 October 1990, Ireland held out at the death in a titanic final tussle.

Both sides had two men each sin binned on a night Cian Healy won his 133rd cap to join Brian O’Driscoll at the top of the list.

Two early Irish tries

In a much improved opening 40 minute performance from last week, Ireland opened the scoring on four minutes.

Jack Crowley, who had earlier been on the receiving end of a dangerous high tackle from Matias Moroni, which saw the centre sin binned for 10 minutes, opened the Irish try-scoring.

With Argentina down a man, Ireland aimed to exploit the wide space in front of them. A break from the home side was dominated by centre Garry Ringrose cutting through the Argentinian side. Tadhg Beirne received the ball yards from the line, but the Munster player unselfishly passed inside to Mack Hansen. The Connacht man had the easy task of touching down for his 10th international try in 23 test matches. On this occasion, Crowley’s conversion attempt was short and fell under the crossbar. This gave Farrell’s side a 12-0 advantage.

Albornoz opens Argentinian scoring

Ireland were penalised for being offside and this gave the Pumas an opportunity to claim their first score of the test match on 12 minutes. Benetton’s Tomás Albornoz dissected the posts to narrow the margin between the sides to 12-3.

Tadhg Beirne thought he had added to the Irish score minutes later when he stretched to touchdown, despite two Argentinian players tackling him. The referee, Paul Williams of New Zealand, called a try as the on field decision, but on review with the TMO, the ball was knocked on as Beirne attempted to ground the ball.

Bealham gets yellow card

Finlay Bealham was found guilty of a crock roll towards the end of the opening quarter of the game. Paul Williams reviewed the incident on the big screen where the Irish front row was clearly seen committing the foul. The Corinthians man was sent to the sin bin for ten minutes.

The penalty which followed was successfully kicked by Albornoz, his second of the night, leaving Ireland in a 12-6 lead.

Crowley kicked a fantastic drop goal from centre field on the stroke of 21 minutes to extend the home side’s advantage to 15-6.

With two Irish players blown for crossing, the visitors were handed another three-point opportunity which Albornoz took with aplomb; the score was Ireland 15 Argentina 9 by this stage, with the clock showing 26 minutes played.

McCarthy claims third Irish try

The men in green soon extended their advantage when Joe McCarthy claimed the side’s third try of the night. Coming from an Irish line out near the Argentinian try line, James Lowe at first looked as though he would be successful. Though he ended up being short of the try-scoring line, McCarthy was in support for the five-point score. Another good kick from Crowley meant the score board read 22-9 in Ireland’s favour at the break.

Half-time:  Ireland 22  Argentina 9

Mallía try for Argentina 

Individual brilliance from Argentinian fullback Juan Cruz Mallía created the space for him to claim his team’s first try of the game, after 45 minutes. The Toulouse player, with a 7s background, broke through an ailing Irish defence and easily took the five-pointer.

A straightforward kick from Tomás Albornoz brought his side to within six points of Ireland, with 46 minutes on the stadium clock.

Joe McCarthy became the second Irish player, and third of the game, to be shown a yellow card. The earlier try scorer was guilty of deliberately going offside according to match referee Williams.

Albornoz kicked his second three-pointer of the second half and brought the Pumas to within three points of Andy Farrell’s team.

Shoulder to head contact from Franciso Gómez Kodela on Caelan Dorris saw the Argentinian spend the final five minutes of the game in the sin bin, the fourth player of the night to spend time in the bin.

Both previously uncapped players Tom Clarkson and Sam Prendergast made their senior international debuts on Friday night, while Cian Healy claimed his 133rd test cap, joining Brian O’Driscoll as Ireland’s most-capped player ever.

Ireland now have 14 wins in games between the sides with Argentina having 6 victories.

Final Score: Ireland 22 Argentina 19

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Robbie Henshaw will make his 75th international appearance this evening and is the only change in the starting line-up from last Friday.

The Leinster duo Thomas Clarkson and Sam Prendergast are the two uncapped players Farrell has chosen on the replacements bench for the game as Ireland hope to get back to winning ways following last their defeat to New Zealand.

Healy in line for cap 133

Cian Healy will win his 133rd Test match cap if coming off the replacements’ bench this evening. His will match the record Test cap haul of former Leinster and Ireland great Brian O’Driscoll.

Ireland’s back three is unchanged from last weekend’s opening Autumn Nations Series test, with Hugo Keenan, James Lowe and Mack Hansen again chosen.

Robbie Henshaw and Garry Ringrose will start in midfield tonight, with Jamison Gibson-Park and Jack Crowley again getting the nod as the half-back pairing.

The entire pack remains unchanged, with Andrew Porter, Rónan Kelleher and Finlay Bealham in the front row, with Joe McCarthy and James Ryan in support in the second row.

Tadhg Beirne, Josh van der Flier, who scored a try against New Zealand, and captain Caelan Doris complete Farrell’s starting team.

Alongside Cian Healy on the replacements’ bench are Rob Herring, uncapped Thomas Clarkson, Ryan Baird, Peter O’Mahony, Craig Casey, uncapped Sam Prendergast and Jamie Osborne.

Speaking ahead of the Argentina clash, Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell, said:

“There has been a sharp focus in training this week and the squad are determined to get back to winning ways in front of a vocal home crowd. Friday will be a special night at Aviva Stadium for more reasons than one.”

Tonight’s game, which kicks off at 8.10pm, will be live on Virgin Media One, and there will be radio coverage on RTÉ Radio 1.

Ireland Team

15. Hugo Keenan, 14. Mack Hansen, 13. Garry Ringrose, 12. Robbie Henshaw, 11. James Lowe, 10. Jack Crowley, 9. Jamison Gibson-Park.

1. Andrew Porter, 2. Rónan Kelleher, 3. Finlay Bealham, 4. Joe McCarthy, 5. James Ryan, 6. Tadhg Beirne, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris (captain).

Replacements:

16. Rob Herring, 17. Cian Healy, 18. Thomas Clarkson, 19. Ryan Baird, 20. Peter O’Mahony, 21. Craig Casey, 22. Sam Prendergast, 23. Jamie Osborne.

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In a tightly-fought game, the All Blacks were full value for their first Dublin win since 2016, with the number of penalties conceded by Ireland having a bearing on the final score.

Opening Half

The opening half of a physical game saw the sides exchange penalty kicks, with New Zealand successfully kicking three to Ireland’s two.

First blood on the scoreboard went to the home side, however. The All Blacks were penalised for blocking in front of the receiver following an Irish Garryowen. With Ireland well positioned to the centre of the posts, Jack Crowley slotted his first kicking attempt at goal over the bar for a 3-0 lead.

New Zealand were quickly awarded their first shot at the posts when referee Nic Berry penalised Finlay Bealham for failing to roll away. Chiefs’ Damian McKenzie comfortably claimed the three-pointer to level the scores after 10 minutes.

All Blacks turned down opportunities to kick for points

Though New Zealand spent a substantial period of the first 40 minutes in the Irish half of the field, the All Blacks turned down a number of goal-kicking opportunities during that time.

With the sides still tied at 3-3 despite the All Blacks’ domination of possession, Damian McKenzie decided to kick his side’s next opportunity, awarded for an illegal tackle from Ireland. This gave the southern hemisphere team a 6-3 advantage on 29 minutes, as the visitors went into the lead for the first time in the test match.

During the final minutes of the first half, McKenzie brought his scoring to nine points when successful with an easy kick, giving New Zealand a 9-3 lead.

Just when it looked as though the main action of the half was complete, the Hurricanes’ Jordi Barrett was penalised for a high tackle. He was shown a yellow card by referee Nic Berry, following consultation with the TMO.

Munster’s Jack Crowley took the ensuing penalty to reduce the deficit on the conclusion of the half, leaving Ireland trailing the All Blacks 6-9 at the break.

Half-time: Ireland 6  New Zealand 9.

Though the Barrett yellow card was reviewed early in the second half, it was not upgraded to red, meaning the All Blacks’ centre spent 10 minutes in the sin bin, instead of 20 minutes which is now the new law.

Ireland try

With the All Blacks down a man, Ireland went in search of an early second half score. The home side powered towards the New Zealand line, moving from left to right. Josh van der Flier eventually stretched and powered his way over for the opening try of the game.

Jack Crowley kicked from right of the posts near the right side line as the Cork Constitution man gave Andy Farrell’s men a 13-9 advantage, with what was arguably his most difficult kick of the night.

Damian McKenzie was soon back on the scoreboard, as his effort from just inside the Irish half of the field, dissected the posts, leaving the bare minimum between the two teams, Ireland leading 13-12 with 49 minutes showing on the match clock.

All Blacks back in front

Finlay Bealham, who had earlier been replaced, came back on the field following an HIA for his replacement, Tom O’Toole. The prop was soon penalised for driving across in the scrum, rather than driving straight.

McKenzie, whose previous penalty attempt has come off the upright, made no mistake on this occasion, and put his side into a two-point lead, 15-13 with the clock passing the 60 minute mark.

Iain Henderson, one of Ireland’s replacements, was penalised at the breakdown minutes later, giving the visitors an opportunity to increase their second-half lead.

McKenzie added to his tally for the night as he successfully kicked the penalty, pushing his team 18-13 ahead in what had been a tight game until that stage.

New Zealand becoming more dominant

New Zealand became more dominant in the game against an unsteady Ireland. The All Blacks split the Irish side on their way to scoring their only five-pointer of the test match, having gone try-less for 68 minutes.

Moving the Irish team from one side of the pitch to the other, the Caelan Dorris-led side were stretched badly, giving New Zealand full-back Will Jordan of the Crusaders the easy task of running into the corner to touch down.

McKenzie failed on this occasion to add the extra point, leaving his side with a 10-point advantage, 23-13, as the game faced into the final 10 minutes.

New Zealand maintained the gap to the death, however, to claim their 32nd success in clashes between the sides.

For Ireland they failed to extend their current run of 19 successive wins at the Aviva Stadium.

Ireland have now won 40 of their last 43 home games at the Aviva Stadium, dating back to 2016.

Final score: Ireland 13  New Zealand 23

Ireland team:

15. Hugo Keenan, 14. Mack Hansen, 13. Garry Ringrose, 12. Bundee Aki, 11. James Lowe, 10. Jack Crowley, 9. Jamison Gibson-Park.
16. Andrew Porter, 2. Ronan Kelleher, 3. Finlay Bealham, 4. Joe McCarthy, 5. James Ryan,
    6. Tadhg Beirne, 7. Josh van der Flier, 8. Caelan Doris (captain).

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Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell named his side earlier this week to face the All Blacks under lights in front of a sell-out crowd tonight.

Caelan Doris, who captained Ireland against Italy in the Six Nations last February, will again captain the side from the back row.

The Ireland back three will consist of Hugo Keenan, Mack Hansen and James Lowe.

Bundee Aki partners Garry Ringrose in midfield, and Jamison Gibson-Park will return to scrum-half to partner Jack Crowley at out-half.

The front row will consist of Andrew Porter, Ronan Kelleher and Finlay Bealham, while Joe McCarthy and James Ryan will comprise the second row.

Tadhg Beirne will operate at blindside flanker with Josh van de Flier on the openside, and captain Caelan Doris playing at number eight will complete the back row.

Looking ahead to tonight’s game, Ireland Head Coach Andy Farrell said:

“It’s a hugely exciting four weeks ahead in Aviva Stadium and we know we’ll need to perform at a high level to beat a top-class New Zealand side. The challenge doesn’t come much bigger or better than New Zealand at a packed Aviva Stadium on a Friday night, under lights, with a home crowd roaring us on.”

On the replacements bench Farrell can call on numerous experienced international players. Rob Herring, Cian Healy, Tom O’Toole, Iain Henderson and Peter O’Mahony are the forwards replacements, while Conor Murray, Ciaran Frawley and Jamie Osborne will provide backup in the backline.

Tonight’s game is live on Virgin Media One and there will be live commentary on RTÉ Radio 1.

Ireland (v New Zealand):

Player/Club/Province/Caps

15. Hugo Keenan (UCD/Leinster)(39)
14. Mack Hansen (Corinthians/Connacht)(21)
13. Garry Ringrose (UCD/Leinster)(60)
12. Bundee Aki (Galwegians/Connacht)(57)
11. James Lowe (Leinster)(33)
10. Jack Crowley (Cork Constitution/Munster)(16)
9. Jamison Gibson-Park (Leinster)(35)

1. Andrew Porter (UCD/Leinster)(66)
2. Rónan Kelleher (Lansdowne/Leinster)(33)
3. Finlay Bealham (Buccaneers/Connacht)(42)
4. Joe McCarthy (Dublin University/Leinster)(12)
5. James Ryan (UCD/Leinster)(64)
6. Tadhg Beirne (Lansdowne/Munster)(52)
7. Josh van der Flier (UCD/Leinster)(64)
8. Caelan Doris (St Mary’s College/Leinster)(43)(captain)

Replacements:

16. Rob Herring (Ballynahinch/Ulster)(40)
17. Cian Healy (Clontarf/Leinster)(131)
18. Tom O’Toole (Ballynahinch/Ulster)(13)
19. Iain Henderson (Academy/Ulster)(81)
20. Peter O’Mahony (Cork Constitution/Munster)(107)
21. Conor Murray (Garryowen/Munster)(118)
22. Ciaran Frawley (UCD/Leinster)(6)
23. Jamie Osborne (Naas/Leinster)(2).

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He highlighted the intensity New Zealand brings, saying, “Playing against the All Blacks has always brought that edge for any type of game.” Farrell described the matchup as “a top, top level Test match that everyone wants to be involved in,” underscoring Ireland’s ambition to “be up there competing with the best.”

This game marks the teams’ first meeting since the All Blacks edged out Ireland 28-24 in the 2023 World Cup quarter-finals. When asked if revenge would be a motivating factor, Farrell firmly stated, “No, that’s the truth – do you need that when you’re playing one of the best sides in the world? Everyone knows that’s the truth.” He further elaborated, “There has been a lot of rugby played and a lot of water gone under the bridge [since that game], so it doesn’t even play a part in it.”

Ireland, currently the top-ranked team globally, is aiming for their 20th consecutive win at home in the Aviva Stadium. Farrell acknowledged both Ireland’s success and New Zealand’s persistent strength, saying, “Irish rugby is in a good place, and I think everyone knows New Zealand are always the team to beat.” He added, “I expect it to be as good as ever, if not better.”

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Whether you prefer a classic look or something more daring, getting your outfit right for the Melbourne Cup can be a fun challenge. It’s about blending tradition with style while ensuring everything fits well and looks polished.

Let’s break down how you can nail your Melbourne Cup fashion and turn heads with your outfit this year.

Know The Dress Code

First things first, you need to know the dress code so you can plan accordingly your Melbourne cup fashion. The Melbourne Cup has a reputation for being formal and elegant. For women, this usually means wearing a dress, a fascinator, and well-chosen accessories. Men are expected to wear suits, but adding a tie, pocket square, or hat can elevate the look.

But how do you follow the rules while still showing off your personal style? The trick is finding a balance between the expected formal style and your unique touch. For example, a traditional dress doesn’t mean it has to be plain—you can go bold with colors or patterns. Men can stand out with a suit in a unique shade rather than sticking to the usual black or navy.

Choose Fabrics That Work For The Weather

Since the Melbourne Cup happens in early November, the weather is usually warm. This makes it important to pick fabrics that are lightweight and comfortable. For women, materials like cotton, chiffon, and silk are great choices—they’re breathable and look elegant. Men can opt for linen or lightweight wool-blend suits that keep them looking sharp while staying cool.

Fabric can also make your outfit look more luxurious. A simple dress in silk can instantly feel more high-end. For men, choosing a wool-blend suit keeps the structure firm but smooth. Avoid anything too heavy, as you’ll be spending hours outside, and comfort is key.

Pick The Right Colors

Color is one of the easiest ways to make your outfit pop at the Melbourne Cup. While black and white are always safe choices, don’t be afraid to try bold colors. This year, shades like deep blues, rich reds, and emerald greens are expected to be popular. If you prefer softer shades, pastels like light pink or lavender can also be striking without being too bold.

For men, choosing a suit in a different color, like dark green or light grey, can help you stand out while still keeping it formal. Don’t forget that accessories can add extra color, too. A colorful fascinator or tie can take your outfit to the next level.

Wearing Fascinators And Hats

No Melbourne Cup outfit is complete without a headpiece. For women, fascinators are the go-to accessory. The trick is to find one that matches your outfit without stealing the spotlight. If your dress is bold, go for a more understated fascinator. If your dress is simple, a more elaborate fascinator can add excitement to your look.

Men, on the other hand, can consider wearing a hat to add a classy touch to their outfits. Choose a hat that complements your suit but isn’t too flashy. A simple, well-fitted hat in a neutral color works best.

Don’t Forget The Accessories

Accessories can make or break your outfit, so it’s important to choose wisely. For women, a stylish handbag, elegant heels, or standout jewelry can elevate the entire look. Men can add character to their outfits with ties, pocket squares, and cufflinks.

When picking accessories, think about what enhances your outfit without overdoing it. A neutral dress can be brightened up with colorful shoes or bold jewelry. For men, if your suit has a unique color, keep your tie and pocket square simple to keep everything balanced.

Comfortable Yet Stylish Shoes

Since the Melbourne Cup is an all-day event, comfort is key, especially when it comes to shoes. Women often wear heels, but it’s wise to choose a pair that provides support. Block heels or wedges offer more stability than stilettos, making them a better choice for a long day.

Men should focus on polished dress shoes that match their suits. Classic colors like black or brown are great choices, and well-fitted shoes will keep you comfortable throughout the day.

Grooming Matters

Looking good isn’t just about your outfit—grooming is important, too. Women should ensure their hair is styled neatly and that their makeup complements their outfits. Subtle makeup with one feature—like bold lips or striking eyes—can work well for an event like this.

Men should also take grooming seriously. A clean, styled haircut and well-groomed facial hair add to the polished look. A well-dressed outfit only shines if your grooming matches it.

Confidence Is Key

While fashion is important at the Melbourne Cup, confidence is what really makes you stand out. Feeling good in your outfit will make a big difference. Take the time to plan your look, and make sure all the details—from your dress or suit to your accessories—come together smoothly. With a well-planned outfit and a positive attitude, you’ll be ready to enjoy the day in style.

Conclusion

Getting your Melbourne Cup fashion just right is all about paying attention to the little details. From the dress code to the right accessories, each part of your outfit plays a role in creating a polished and stylish look. By choosing the right fabrics, colors, and accessories and making sure your grooming is on point, you’ll be able to enjoy the day confidently. Remember, a well-thought-out outfit will not only look great but also make you feel great.

The post How to Perfect Your Melbourne Cup Fashion This Year appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

The Munster fan base are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the team’s next permanent head coach. Betting markets have opened, here’s a closer look at the frontrunners and their odds, as well as some background information on each candidate.

1. Mike Prendergast (2/1)

Currently the favorite, Mike Prendergast has built a strong reputation in rugby coaching circles, especially with his work in France, where he’s developed his skills with various top-tier teams. Known for his attacking style and strategic acumen, Prendergast has brought a perspective to Munster’s forward gameplay. He could be a great head coach

2. Felix Jones (9/4)

Felix Jones, an ex-Munster player and former Ireland international, has coaching experience with the South African & English national teams. His familiarity with Munster and international coaching background make him an attractive option. His knowledge of both northern and southern hemisphere styles could bring a new dynamic to Munster’s approach.

3. Paul O’Connell (4/1)

One of the most iconic figures in Irish rugby, Paul O’Connell brings leadership and passion. As a former Munster and Ireland captain, his deep connection to Munster Rugby makes him a sentimental favorite. His experience as Ireland’s forwards coach adds to his qualifications, although his lack of head coaching experience might be a factor.

4. Jerry Flannery (9/1)

Another former Munster and Ireland player, Jerry Flannery has coaching experience with Harlequins in England and now with South Africa. Known for his discipline and technical knowledge, Flannery has the potential to bring a structured approach to the team.

5. Ronan O’Gara (9/1)

A legendary figure in Munster and Irish rugby, Ronan O’Gara has gained extensive coaching experience overseas, particularly with La Rochelle in France, where he won the European Rugby Champions Cup. Though a long shot due to current commitments, his return to Munster would undoubtedly be celebrated by fans.

6. Noel McNamara (14/1)

Currently coaching in France , McNamara’s development-focused approach has garnered attention. Known for nurturing young talent, he could be a valuable asset in building a strong team foundation for the future.

7. Tyler Bleyendaal (16/1)

A former Munster player turned coach, Tyler Bleyendaal is seen as an outsider but has an in-depth understanding of Munster’s ethos. His recent coaching career is still in its early stages, so this could be a long-term gamble for those betting on potential.

The post Betting Odds for the Next Munster Rugby Head Coach appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Leinster’s runaway dominance over the other three provinces is becoming laughable. Finding a solution won’t be easy for David Humphreys, but something needs to be done urgently, or the provincial derbies will become little more than training sessions for Leinster.

Leinster (1st, 29/30pts)

Leinster are leading the URC with near perfection, missing only a bonus point against the Lions. They have rotated their squad well, allowing several players to gain experience while maintaining form. Caelan Doris has been outstanding, and Ciaran Frawley has emerged as Ireland’s top-performing out-half so far this season.

They are so far ahead of the other Irish provinces it’s becoming boring watching the provincial derbies. Leo Cullen’s likely contract extension speaks to the consistency and ambition within the club. Rating: 10/10

Connacht (5th, 18/30pts)

Connacht’s start to the season has been impressive at times but they have played some very poor teams. The new partnership of Ben Murphy and Josh Ioane have been instrumental in their wins.

There has been far less rotation which has delighted fans. They have secured valuable bonus points and performed well in inter-provincial games, narrowly missing wins against Ulster and Munster. However, defensive issues remain a huge concern, as they’ve conceded some awful scores. Fans will hope for a Challenge Cup push, though main starters may be rested until knockout stages.

Paul Boyle and Cian Prendergast have had phenomenal. Pete Wilkins will be delighted with Connacht being well-positioned for top 8. Rating: 6/10

Ulster (7th, 16/30pts)

Ulster’s recent collapse against Cardiff, where they lost a 19-point lead, has put a damper on what could’ve been a decent start. A win there would’ve boosted them to 3rd.

Fans will be delighted with Jacob Stockdale but rumours of low morale in the camp is worrying, and Richie Murphy faces pressure to stabilise this and secure wins, but they have a really tough fixture list before Xmas. Ulster’s fans could be in for a tough period if things don’t improve. Rating: 6/10

Munster (12th, 12/30pts)

Munster’s season has been turbulent, not least due to Graham Rowntree’s recent departure, supposedly down to a couple of incidents over the last few months. Realistically they are lucky to have 12 points, they were fortunate to edge past Connacht, and the Ospreys seemed disengaged.

With back-to-back home games, a fresh coach could provide much-needed support, yet the spate of injuries suggests a long road ahead against top sides. Stade Francais game is huge. Tom Farrell has clearly been their best player and Jack Crowley look set for a fight to keep the Irish 10 jersey which is probably a good thing.

Rumours of Felix Jones joining may bring optimism, but the challenges of budget restrictions remain significant. Rating: 4/10

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Tuesday
AC Milan v Brugge, 5:30pm, Virgin2
Real Madrid v Dortmund, 8pm, Virgin2

Wednesday
Atalanta v Celtic, 5:30pm, Virgin2
Barcelona v Bayern, 8pm, Virgin2
Leipzig v Liverpool, 8pm – RTE2

Thursday
Fenerbahce v Man Utd, 8pm, TNT2

Friday
Women’s – Georgia v ROI, 5pm, RTE2
Shelbourne v Drogheda, 7:45pm, RTE2

Saturday
Sharks v Munster, 3pm, TG4
Leinster v Lions, 5:15pm, RTE2
Connacht v Dragons, 7:35pm, TG4
Na Fianna v Kilmacud, 7:45pm RTE2

Sunday
Corifin v Moycullen, 2:15 TG4
Doon v Na Pairsaigh, 4pm, TG4
Arsenal v Liverpool, 4:30pm, Sky Spts
Dundalk v Rovers, 5:30pm, Virgin2
NFL Red Zone, 6pm Sky Sports Mix

The post List of Live Sport on TV this week – RTE, Virgin, TG4 and BBC appeared first on SportsNewsIreland.

Captain Alan O’Connor leads the team after achieving a remarkable milestone of 200 caps for the province in last weekend’s interprovincial victory over Connacht in Belfast. O’Connor will partner with Harry Sheridan in the second row; Sheridan returns to the squad following a successful Emerging Ireland tour in South Africa.

The front row features Eric O’Sullivan at loosehead prop, making his return from a shoulder injury, with James McCormick starting at hooker and Tom O’Toole completing the lineup at tighthead prop.

Cormac Izuchukwu also rejoins the starting XV at blindside flanker after his Emerging Ireland duty. Marcus Rea is set to make his first start of the season on the openside, while last weekend’s try-scorer David McCann takes the number eight position.

Following a stellar Player of the Match performance last week, John Cooney retains his position at scrum-half, partnering with fly-half Aidan Morgan. On the wings, Jacob Stockdale and Werner Kok keep their places on the left and right flanks, respectively.

In midfield, Murphy introduces a fresh combination with Stuart McCloskey returning to the starting lineup after recovering from an injury sustained against Emirates Lions a few weekends ago. Ben Carson joins McCloskey as the outside centre.

Mike Lowry rounds out the starting XV at full-back.

On the bench, Murphy opts for a 5:3 split, featuring forwards Tadgh McElroy, Callum Reid, Scott Wilson, Kieran Treadwell, and Matty Rea. Back replacements include Nathan Doak, James Humphreys, and Jude Postlethwaite.

Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting clash as Ulster aims to secure victory against Ospreys in this pivotal championship match.

Ulster v Ospreys

Kingspan Stadium, Belfast – KO 19.35  IRE & UK / 20.35  ITA & SA

Referee: Andrea Piardi (FIR, 46th league game)

AR 1: Andrew Cole (IRFU) AR 2: Andrew Fogarty (IRFU)

TMO: Matteo Liperini (FIR)

Live on: Premier Sports, SuperSport, Flo Rugby & URC.tv

Ulster: Eric O’Sullivan, James McCormick, Tom O’Toole, Alan O’Connor (CAPT), Harry Sheridan, Cormac Izuchukwu, Marcus Rea, David McCann, Mike Lowry, Werner Kok, Ben Carson, Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, Aidan Morgan, John Cooney

Replacements: Tadgh McElroy, Callum Reid, Scott Wilson, Kieran Treadwell and Matty Rea, Nathan Doak, James Humphreys, Jude Postlethwaite

Ospreys: Jack Walsh, Dan Kasende, Evardi Boshoff, Owen Williams, Keelan Giles, Dan Edwards, Kieran Hardy, Gareth Thomas, Sam Parry, Ben Warren, Will Greatbanks, Lewis Jones, Lewis Lloyd, Justin Tipuric, Morgan Morris (CAPT)

Replacements: Ethan Lewis, Garyn Phillips, Math Iowerth-Scott, Rhys Thomas, Dan Gemine, Reuben Morgan-Williams, Tom Florence, Max Nagy

Ospreys Head Coach Toby Booth, said: “Ulster are a very good team and there’s always a great atmosphere at Ravenhill. It’s going to be a tough gig, but we’ve got some good players ourselves and some youngsters that will be full of excitement. What’s important for us in this one is that we be the best we can be.”

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