Murphy praises Ulster for ‘sticking in the fight’
Ulster recovered from a 21-point deficit to push the Bulls close in Pretoria, but lost 34-26 in the United Rugby Championship. Head coach Richie Murphy praised his players for sticking to their plan and continuing to compete, while acknowledging that the defeat left them disappointed.
The Bulls scored four tries, with former Ulster player Marcell Coetzee crossing twice. Ulster earned a bonus point for scoring four tries, but Curwin Bosch’s penalty with the final kick denied them a second. Ulster remain without a league win after two draws and two defeats; Murphy cited early turnovers, indiscipline and breakdown work as areas to address before facing the Stormers in Cape Town.
In short
- Ulster fought back from 21 points down but lost 34-26 to the Bulls.
- A final-kick penalty denied Ulster a second bonus point.
- Murphy says the close battle offers lessons for the Stormers match.
Explained simply
Ulster Rugby is a professional team from Northern Ireland, competing in the United Rugby Championship, a league that includes clubs from Ireland, Wales, Scotland, Italy and South Africa. Richie Murphy is Ulster’s head coach, responsible for preparing the team and setting its approach.
The Bulls are a South African club based in Pretoria. Marcell Coetzee, who scored for them in this match, previously played for Ulster. In rugby union, a bonus point can be earned by scoring four or more tries, or by losing by seven points or fewer.
Ulster’s league results matter because points gained across the season help determine their place in the competition and whether they reach the play-offs. Their next opponents, the Stormers, are another South African side in the league.