Fitzpatrick's risk rewarded

Justin Fitzpatrick concedes that it was with no little trepidation that he tried to sneak into the gym on his first day training with Ulster. "I suppose that's my first memory. I wasn't sure how things were going to work out or whether I'd like it in Ulster."

At six foot two inches and over 18 stone, it would have proved difficult for Fitzpatrick to blend into the background but he was immediately made welcome. Born in Chichester and educated at Bognor Regis Community School, the 25-year-old decided that his rugby career was of primary importance and as a result he quit London Irish for Dungannon. He knew that Irish coach Warren Gatland would favour those playing in Ireland and decided to give himself every advantage.

Ulster's success and a fifth cap for Ireland against South Africa at Lansdowne Road justify the initial risk taken. "I was made to feel very welcome initially. I obviously knew some of the players having played with and against them from my London Irish days. They are a very friendly bunch and that helps you to integrate. It was a positive first step to helping me settle.

"I had been in the province twice before, one with London Irish and on another occasion when playing for Ireland A in November 1997." Fitzpatrick moved into a house with Simon Mason and Stephen Bell. "It's a lovely old house in a quiet area, ideal for three young guys. I am very happy living here.

"The squad is a very close knit group, a bit like London Irish, and we do a lot of activities together. There is a great sense of camaraderie whether on the paddock or just simply socialising." Fitzpatrick is adamant that he rarely gets homesick. He is enjoying the adulation afforded by the local populace something that would not happen in London. You could walk outside of Sunbury, strolling down The Avenue having just overturned Harlequins and no one would be any the wiser. After the quarter-final and semi-final victories it was bedlam. You would stroll into Sainsburys and people would come up to talk about the matches.

So why will Ulster win the European Cup final? "There's a wonderful team spirit, no prima donnas and a tremendous work ethic. Obviously individuals like David Humphreys and Simon Mason have been standout players for us, but the team has gelled well. The response from the supporters has been quite legendary. Harry Williams has kept us focussed and informed about our opponents and I don't see why the success has to stop just because we have made the final."