ULSTER ARE IN WORLD OF PAYNE

ULSTER defence coach Jared Payne admits there were a few “home truths” spoken in the aftermath of Friday night’s chaotic Challenge Cup semi-final defeat to Leicester.

The former Ireland centre also accepts the province “stopped playing” as the Tigers hit back from an 11 point half-time deficit to win 33-24 at Welford Road.

Ulster looked destined to reach a first European final in nine years but were rocked by a Leicester fightback as Steve Borthwick’s men ran up 27 points in the second half.

“A few home truths were said after,” said Payne. “It was a sore place and everyone was pretty gutted.

“A lot of effort went into it, so we hurt, but what was said stays between the four walls.

“We probably stopped playing a little bit and Tigers put us under a lot of pressure, so you’ve got to give them credit too. We couldn’t deal with a lot of the stuff they threw at us.

“We’re definitely facing it head on this week because if you hide away from it, it’s going to eat you up from inside, so we had a pretty good conversation on Monday.

“We need to flush what happened and get back on the horse again.”

Payne has warned Ulster they can’t afford to wallow in self pity postleicester ahead of Friday night’s Rainbow Cup Interpro with Munster at Thomond Park.

Dan Mcfarland’s (inset) men have lost their last two outings, including a 24-26 home defeat to Connacht in their opening Rainbow Cup game a fortnight ago.

“Going down to Munster, if you feel sorry for yourself, you’ll be in a world of hurt,” said Payne (right). “It’s a big challenge and you can’t go down there half hearted.

“How we start will be a big part of this week and the mindset we bring from the get-go will be massive. It’s going to have to be on point.”

Some positive news for Ulster is the fact experienced Australian lock Sam Carter, who last played four weeks ago, is closing in on a return to action.