Ulster Hold Off Connacht for 17-7 Triumph

Ulster ended a five-match losing streak with a hard-fought 17-7 victory over Connacht in the United Rugby Championship. Youngsters played a pivotal role, with number eight James McNabney particularly impressive. Ulster opened the scoring in the 11th minute as McNabney’s carries set up Eric O’Sullivan’s try. Scrum-half Nathan Doak added a penalty to give the visitors a 10-0 lead as Connacht struggled with inaccuracy.

Connacht’s only score came in the 34th minute after an error by Ulster with Mack Hansen intercepting a chip from Jack Carty following hesitation between Michael Lowry and debutant Rory Telfer. Despite increasing territory, Connacht’s attack lacked fluency and their efforts were continuously thwarted by Ulster’s strong defense. The second half saw Ulster assert control as Nick Timoney’s line-out maul try in the 54th minute following powerful carries from McNabney, Scott Wilson and Treadwell put them 17-7 ahead.

Connacht failed to capitalize on late opportunities including a missed penalty attempt from Cathal Forde and a dropped pass from Hansen while poised to score. Ulster faced a depleted squad with several key players including Stuart McCloskey and Jacob Stockdale, sidelined. They were further stretched when winger Werner Kok was forced off with an injury.

However, they maintained composure and held off Connacht’s late surge including crucial turnovers from Timoney to secure the win. The victory moved Ulster up to eighth in the standings while Connacht dropped to 13th.