Academy Players Included In Ulster Squad

The provisional Ulster squad has been named ahead of Friday’s RaboDirect PRO12 match against Glasgow Warriors at Scotstoun Stadium (kick-off 7.35pm).

Hughes Insurance Academy players Alan O’Connor, James Simpson and Conor Joyce have been added to the province’s panel as have front rowers Ricky Lutton and Andrew Warwick.

Half-backs Paul Marshall and Niall O’Connor have also been included after missing last weekend’s bonus point victory over Zebre.

The 27-year-old winger Neil Walsh, a late replacement in that game, may get another opportunity this Friday against the Scottish outfit.

Ulster remains top of the PRO12 table following the 26-3 home win over the Italians. Mark Anscombe’s men have a seven-point advantage over the second-placed Warriors going into round 16.

ULSTER Squad (v Glasgow Warriors) – Backs (11): Ruan Pienaar, Paul Marshall, Michael Heaney, Niall O’Connor, Stuart Olding, Paddy Wallace, Michael Allen, Andrew Trimble, Chris Cochrane, Neil Walsh, Ricky Andrew.

Forwards (14): Rob Herring, Nigel Brady, Ricky Lutton, Callum Black, Andrew Warwick, John Afoa, Neil McComb, Alan O’Connor, James Simpson, Dan Tuohy, Mike McComish, Conor Joyce, Ali Birch, Robbie Diack.