Gilroy’s new deal a huge Kingspan lift

IN a season crying out for a bit of a lift, Ulster have finally got something positive over the line by securing the services of try-scoring winger Craig Gilroy in a new three-year deal until 2021.

And the 26-year-old, who crossed for a hat-trick of touchdowns in his comeback game against the Southern Kings last Friday after fracturing his cheekbone, has vowed to keep racking up the scores at the Kingspan.

“There’s no better feeling than scoring tries for Ulster,” said Gilroy (below) who has managed 57 of them in 158 appearances.

“I am delighted to agree a long-term deal to stay here with hopefully my best rugby years to look forward to,” the 10-times capped Ireland international added.

Gilroy’s decision to remain at his home province until he turns 30 is a massive boost for Ulster Rugby who are currently in the midst of a torrid season both on and off the pitch.

His try scoring form this season has seen Gilroy strike for nine touchdowns in his last seven games and it was thought that he might be leaving these shores especially as there seems little prospect of being involved in Ireland coach Joe Schmidt’s plans despite scoring a hat-trick on his last Irish appearance a year ago in Rome.

Meanwhile, 22-year-old back-rower Nick Timoney has been upgraded to a senior Ulster contract.