Ulster Rugby returned from the international break with a statement performance, powering to a commanding 47–13 bonus-point victory over Benetton at Affidea Stadium in Round 6 of the BKT United Rugby Championship.
Photo: Ulster Rugby on X
The result means Richie Murphy’s men now have four wins from their opening five fixtures, reinforcing an impressive start to the 2025 season as they look ahead to the European Challenge Cup.
A Late Change — But Ulster Set the Tone Early
There was pre-match drama as Iain Henderson, set to make his return from Ireland duty, was withdrawn during the warm-up and replaced by Matty Dalton. But Dalton’s evening ended just nine minutes in, forcing Charlie Irvine into early action.
Despite the disruption, Ulster burst out of the blocks.
On 10 minutes, Robert Baloucoune crossed for the opening try after a sensational cross-field kick from Nathan Doak. Although the conversion drifted wide, Ulster had the platform they needed.
Benetton responded through a Jacob Umaga penalty, narrowing the score to 5–3.
Kok and Postlethwaite Ignite the Attack
Ulster looked hungry and aggressive, with Tom Stewart almost crashing over before being held up. Moments later, the exciting Jude Postlethwaite sliced through Benetton’s defence before offloading to Werner Kok, who finished brilliantly.
Doak’s conversion stretched the lead to 12–3.
Benetton, however, clawed their way back just before half-time. After sustained pressure and a TMO review, Bautista Bernasconi was awarded a try, and Umaga added the extras — followed by a late penalty to edge the Italians ahead.
Half-Time: Ulster 12–13 Benetton
Second-Half Surge: Ulster Take Control
Ulster’s response after the break was emphatic.
With Callum Reid and Rob Herring introduced early in the second half, Ulster immediately found rhythm. James Hume powered over for Ulster’s third try, converted by Doak, restoring a 19–13 lead.
Then came the moment of the match: a scintillating Postlethwaite line break feeding Werner Kok, who bagged his second try of the night. Another Doak conversion pushed Ulster 26–13 clear.
Minutes later, a deliberate knock-on by Onisi Ratave handed Ulster a penalty try and Benetton a yellow card — securing the bonus point.
Sheridan, Baloucoune and the Bench Finish the Job
The final quarter saw Ulster in full control as the home crowd roared.
Milestones and comebacks added to the occasion:
- David Shanahan earned his 100th cap in an Ulster jersey
- Stewart Moore returned from his loan spell at Newcastle Red Bulls
- Bryn Ward, Jake Flannery, and others brought fresh energy off the bench
From close range, Harry Sheridan smashed over to make it 40–13 before Baloucoune grabbed his second try, rounding off a superb performance. Flannery added the final conversions.
Full-Time: Ulster 47–13 Benetton
A Statement Win Before European Action
This emphatic victory not only showcased Ulster’s depth and resilience but also provided the perfect momentum heading into European competition.
Next up, Ulster face Racing 92 on home turf in the opening round of the European Challenge Cup next Friday night — a huge test, and one this squad looks more than ready for.
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