Arabic version: ألستر ينتفض ليتعادل مع مونستر في بلفاست

According to BBC News, Ulster fought back from 26-5 down at half-time to draw 26-26 with Munster in a United Rugby Championship Irish derby in Belfast. Stuart McCloskey’s converted try three minutes from time secured a share of the points and gave Ulster a second successive draw.

Munster had appeared set for a bonus-point win after Alex Kendellen scored twice, while Marnus van der Merwe and Dan Kelly also crossed in the first half. Jacob Stockdale had provided Ulster’s only first-half score, marking his 150th appearance with a solo try, but Munster led 26-5 at the break. Ulster had also lost second row Eli Snyman to a head knock, while Cormac Izuchukwu was yellow carded after his shoulder struck Gavin Coombes’ head at a ruck.

Ulster made changes at half-time, bringing on Tom McAllister and James McNabney before Tom O’Toole and Matthew Devine entered the contest. O’Toole, making his first appearance of the season, helped create the chance for Stockdale’s second try after Rob Baloucoune sprinted towards the line and set up the winger.

David McCann then scored after sustained Ulster pressure to reduce the deficit further. Munster replacement fly-half Charlie O’Shea later kicked a penalty short after the ball fell off the tee. Ulster pressed for an equaliser and McCloskey barged over, with Jack Murphy converting to level the match. Ulster, still seeking their first win after an opening loss to Edinburgh and a 33-33 draw with Glasgow, travel to Zebre in the Challenge Cup on 17 October. Munster host Racing in the Champions Cup later that day.