Arabic version: ميرفي يدعم أولستر لإنهاء سلسلة مبارياته بلا فوز في بطولة URC

According to BBC News, Ulster head coach Richie Murphy remains confident his side can turn around their United Rugby Championship form despite opening the season without a win in four matches. Ulster are one point outside the play-off places after defeat by Edinburgh, draws with Glasgow and Munster, and a loss to the Bulls.

Murphy said Ulster have repeatedly put themselves in difficult positions before fighting back. The province defeated Zebre in their Challenge Cup opener, but are still seeking a first URC victory. He said the team had been “digging a bit of a hole” in each of their four league games, while stressing they have been competitive against top-class opposition.

Ulster face the Stormers in Cape Town on Saturday at 12:45 GMT. Murphy said consistency in attack and defence would be vital, adding that small improvements at the breakdown and in pass quality could make a difference. He said the side would continue to follow its process and believed results would come.

The task is complicated by the absence of nine Ulster players called into Ireland duty ahead of November’s Nations Championship fixtures. Stuart McCloskey, Jacob Stockdale, Robert Baloucoune, Nathan Doak, Jamie Benson, Tom O’Toole, Tom Stewart, James McNabney and Nick Timoney are unavailable. Murphy said the number was more than expected, but welcomed the opportunity for the players to represent Ireland.

Stormers players such as Siya Kolisi, Evan Roos and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu are likely to be available. Ulster will look to the experience of Rob Herring and James Hume, while returning wing Zac Ward offers a try-scoring option. Murphy also praised first-time Ireland call-ups Benson and McNabney, saying Benson has shown leadership and versatility, while McNabney’s attributes are clear after his return from an ACL injury.