Jersey slip to fifth defeat on the trot

A POWERFUL Ulster A side that featured Tommy Bowe and Dan Tuohy were too good for Jersey.

A fifth defeat in a row for Jersey was a disappointing start to the competition, but once Sam Windsor ran in the game’s only try in the second-half there was no way back.

Despite facing one of the strongest scrums and lineouts in the competition, Ulster coach Kieran Campbell was happy with his side’s efforts.

“At times we did very well in trhe set-piece and at other times we struggled,” said Campbell. “It is part of the game in the Championship that they really pride themselves on and Jersey have one of the best scrums.”

Harvey Biljon’s side had impressed in the first-half, even though they trailed 96 after a dour opening 40 minutes. A Johnny McPhillips penalty gave Ulster the lead after 10 minutes.

Sam Katz and McPhillips traded penalties to see Ulster lead by three points at the break.

Ulster took control thereafter and McPhillips soon stretched their lead. The win was wrapped up when Windsor scored a fine individual try and McPhillips converted.

Jersey boss Biljon said: “I’m really proud of the way my players conducted themselves and played with passion against a really strong side.

“There were injuries which meant we had to problem-solve on the pitch, but they stepped up.”