Ulster reward home-grown talent

The future for Ulster rugby looks brighter today after it was announced that seven players have re-signed with the province.  After a shaky start to the season, Matt Williams's side have been in top form of late and their prospects have now been boosted by the commitment to Ravenhill of the home-grown talent.

Four 21-year-olds - David Pollock, Darren Cave, Niall O'Connor, Mark McCrea, and Thomas Anderson - and Bryn Cunningham (30) have signed contract extensions until 2011, while Willie Faloon (22) has re-signed until 2010.

"It is fantastic to have these exceptional young players, that the province has developed stay with Ulster," said Williams today. They have all been very successful in their careers so far and are the future of the team.

"All the staff and other players are really excited that we have signed all six future stars and we are all delighted that Bryn has again signed on the dotted line, he is a player of great experience and I hope he will be a great mentor to some of the younger players coming through the ranks."

Chief executive Michael Reid added: "We are extremely pleased to have finalised the signing of these players, this strong statement from Ulster Rugby and the players themselves highlights our commitment to developing and nurturing the best local talent and the player's commitment to their province."

Bangor-born Cunnigham has already made his mark with Ulster as part of the European Cup, Celtic League and Celtic Cup winning sides and has scored 113 points in 145 appearances.

The six others have all come through the Academy at Jordanstown. With the exception of Faloon, all have played leading roles in Ulsters return to form this season.

Ulster will be hopeful the news can be a catalyst to an unlikely fightback in the Heineken European Cup. After a home win over the Llanelli Scarlets at the weekend they travel to Wales for the return leg on Friday, needing another victory to keep up their pursuit of Stade Francais in second.

Stade face Harlequins again after their defeat at home to the English at the weekend left the door open for Ulster to claw their way back into contention for qualification from Pool Four.

Another win could see Ulster move to within one-point of the French side ahead of the visit of 'Quins to Ravenhill and a final pool fixture at the Stade de France.