Rugby: Ulster will be looking for a ninth consecutive win at Ravenhill in 2011 when Cardiff Blues visit Belfast this Friday and a win over the Pro12 league leaders could see them top the table by the end of the night.
New addition Jared Payne has been included in the 29-man squad and looks set to debut in the backline against the Welsh who, like the homeside, have won both their games this season but hold a two-point lead by virtue of bonus-point wins over Edinburgh and Treviso.
Ulster’s home record, however, has been the backbone of their progress this year, as Glasgow Warriors found to their cost on the opening weekend and the arrival of Payne, who can play in the centre of across the back three will provide further options for Brian McLaughlin.
A third win would equal the start they made to last season, while Connacht, also in with a shout of topping the table on Friday, will be looking for their best opening ever when they travel to face Edinburgh.
Eric Elwood’s side have been buoyed by the news Dave Gannon has returned to the province as cover for Dave Nolan, who broke his leg last month.
The 28-year-old secondrow made 55 appearances for Connacht after joining in 2005. He has since played for Air New Zealand Cup side Southland and Aviva Premiership side Exeter Chiefs.
“Dave’s been brought in as cover for the injured Dave Nolan and we’re delighted to have a player of his calibre in the squad,” said Elwood today. “He’s played here before so he’s been able to fit straight into the setup and he gives us extra options in the second row.”
Speaking about his one-year-deal, Gannon said: “I’m excited to be back in Connacht and I’m looking forward to a big season ahead. It’s been good seeing some old faces about, a lot has changed since I left and I’ve been impressed with the work ethic of the lads. I’m looking forward to being a Galwegian again.”
Ulster squad (v Cardiff)
Forwards: Paddy McAllister, Callum Black, Jerry Cronin, Declan Fitzpatrick, Adam Macklin, John Burns, Andi Kyriacou, Nigel Brady, Dan Tuohy, Lewis Stevenson, Tim Barker, Neil McComb, Mike McComish, Pedrie Wannenburg, Chris Henry, Willie Faloon, Robbie Diack
Backs: Paul Marshall, Ian Porter, Ian Humphreys, Paddy Jackson, Ian Whitten, Luke Marshall, Nevin Spence, Darren Cave, Jared Payne, Conor Gaston, Craig Gilroy, Adam D'Arcy
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