Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
HOME AND AWAY Boss wants a repeat performance to avoid drama
ULSTER coach Dan Mcfarland has warned his players they can’t rely on home advantage to fuel their Euro hopes against a wounded Scarlets this weekend.
The province secured a huge 25-24 win in Llanelli on Friday to ease themselves up to second in their pool at the midway stage.
But while Ulster are favourites to register another win in the return clash at the Kingspan Stadium this Friday, Mcfarland is taking nothing for granted.
He also pointed to other away wins for Glasgow, Gloucester, Leinster and Toulouse in Round 3 of the competition as reason for caution.
“When you win away from home in round three, there are a number of things we have to be careful of,” said Mcfarland.
“We have to understand that a great fan base and a great stadium does not win a rugby game for you. That’s the first thing.
“It was interesting there were five away victories (in the competition) at the weekend, so winning at home is not a right.
“The second thing is the understanding that Scarlets are a really good side and will be hurting after losing at home.”
Replicating Friday’s vibrant display at Parc y Scarlets is the task facing Mcfarland as Ulster eye up the knockout stages of Europe for the first time since 2014.
The group concludes next month with a home clash against leaders Racing 92, who are five points clear at the top, and a date with the
Leicester Tigers at
Welford Road.
Mcfarland said: “We’re out to win this week and we have to be aware of what it takes to win. You don’t win away from home against the Scarlets just by chance.
“You win because you prepare well, are mentally ready and take the task to the opposition. We have to do the same at home.”
While try-scoring centre Will Addison picked up the man of the match award at Scarlets, Springbok forward Marcell Coetzee, inset, also stood out with the bonus point try.
It was an eye-catching reminder of what Ulster have been missing during Coetzee’s lengthy periods on the sidelines with serious knee injuries.
Mcfarland said: “Marcell has been through a very, very long period where it has been very difficult for him, but he has been a warrior for us this season. He has improved gradually as the season has gone on and had a good game on Friday.”
Lock Alan O’connor and Craig Gilroy remain sidelined, while flanker Sean Reidy is also a doubt having been taken off for an HIA at Parc y Scarlets.