The Front Row Union

The waiting was finally over and we were able to get a look at most of our new signings. So how did they do?

For me the pick of the bunch was Ed O’Donoghue who put in a good nights work. He was abrasive and athletic round the park and looked an asset in the line out. He didn’t take a backward step all night and if he keeps up this level of performance Caldwell is going to struggle for his place.

Robbie Diack also had a reasonable, if slightly under key, performance. Technically he looks to have it all, soft hands and a good burst of speed from a standing start. However he didn’t appear to get as involved as O’Donoghue and I expected him to be more aggressive.

Clinton Schifcofske looked calm and assured under pressure but did struggle to get into the game. He appeared to have been given responsibility for the back line for this game and when he becomes more familiar with his team mates he should be able to concentrate more on his own game.

Timoci Nagusa had a mixed start but looks set to be a crowd favourite. He was wrong footed a couple of times in defence but he put in a lot of work and did give a few signs of what we might expect in the future. He brought one of the few cheers from the crowd when he covered back deep and then launched an exciting counter attack.

Cillian Willis had a reasonable enough game though he could have done with a bit more protection from the forwards. He seemed to work well with Niall O’Connor and has a good pass but, as with Paul Marshall, his physical bulk does inhibit his game and he needs to bulk up if he is to move up a level.

Overall, for Ulster, it was a reasonable performance and they can be reasonably satisfied with their set play in attack and defence. However Bath had a definite edge, both in attack and defence, during broken play where Ulster seemed to lack any imagination. Youngsters Henry and Anderson showed up well when they come on and TJ has certainly bulked up over the summer. Filo Paulo also had a reasonable game despite slapping at a few tackles. He is huge though and, when he gets permission to play, will be another useful addition to the squad and will certainly make the fight for second row interesting.

A useful enough work out but let’s hope we see something more next week against Queensland.

Pictures below.

You’ve had a chance to have a look at most of the new signings. Our poll, below, is still open until 6th September so there’s still time to vote for whoever impressed you most.

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