ERC says yes to Ravenhill

Ulster have been successful in their fight to secure Ravenhill as the venue for next month's European Cup semi-final against Stade Francais. European Rugby Cup Ltd (ERC) yesterday confirmed that despite initial problems they were satisfied that all criteria would be met in staging the event.

The fundamental issue was that Ravenhill's capacity could be increased from its present figure of 13,500 to the 20,000 minimum required by ERC Ltd. The Chief executive of the Ulster Branch, Michael Reid, said: "We will erect temporary seating to bring the capacity to over 20,000.

"It was vital that we got the match for Ravenhill and in that respect I would like to pay tribute to the help we received from the IRFU and ERC Ltd in securing the decision. I have no doubt that it will be a great occasion."

Ulster captain David Humphreys was similarly upbeat about the decision, but admitted that his damaged shoulder was a cause for concern. "After getting a home tie in the semi-final draw, it was vital that the match be played at Ravenhill. It's marvellous news for all of us. It will be touch and go as to whether I will be able to play. It's a complete dislocation of the shoulder and that requires a four to six week recovery period. There are only four weeks from game to game but I am hopeful that I can speed up the process."

No date has yet been finalised for the match but it seems certain that the game will go ahead on Saturday, January 9th. French television is the ultimate arbiter and they have indicated that the Saturday is preferable. The match may also be shown live on BBC Northern Ireland.