Ulster look to make it a URC three-in-a-row over Connacht

Ulster travel to Connacht on Saturday looking to build on their opening two URC victories.

Lock Alan O’Connor, captains the team and will be hoping to carry on the province’s good record in Galway.

Harry Sheridan joins Alan O’Connor in the second row. Whereas, In a changed front row Eric O’Sullivan, returns to the team for the first time this season at loosehead prop.

Joining O’Sullivan in the pack is John Andrew and tighthead prop James French. Whereas, French makes his first competitive start for Ulster after joining the club in the summer.

In the back row Matty Rea starts alongside development player Reuben Crothers, who makes his first competitive appearance for his home province at openside flanker. Whereas, Ireland international Nick Timoney completes the back row. Retaining his place at eight following an impressive performance against Vodacom Bulls.

Meanwhile, McFarland opts for a new partnership at nine and ten, with Dave Shanahan starting for the first time this season at scrum-half. Furthermore, Jake Flannery getting the nod at fly-half.

While, Ethan McIlroy, makes his first start this campaign as starts on the left wing. Meanwhile, the centre partnership sees academy products Stewart Moore and James Hume, pair-up in the engine room of the back field.

Indeed, Aaron Sexton, makes his first start of the season on Ulster’s right wing. Moreover, Will Addison retains his place at full-back.

Whereas, McFarland opts for a 5:3 split, as Tom Stewart, Andy Warwick, Greg McGrath, David McCann, Nathan Doak, Billy Burns and Ben Moxham complete the replacements.

Ulster: 15. Will Addison, 14. Aaron Sexton, 13. James Hume, 12. Stewart Moore, 11. Ethan McIlroy, 10. Jake Flannery, 9. Dave Shanahan, 1. Eric O’Sullivan, 2. John Andrew, 3. James French, 4. Alan O’Connor (C), 5. Harry Sheridan, 6. Matty Rea, 7. Reuben Crothers, 8. Nick Timoney.

Replacements: 16. Tom Stewart, 17. Andy Warwick, 18. Greg McGrath, 19. Joe Hopes, 20. David McCann, 21. Nathan Doak, 22. Billy Burns, 23. Ben Moxham.