Gilroy: We’re Going To Show What We Can Do

It does not get any bigger than playing Toulon in the European Champions Cup. That is the verdict of Ulster winger Craig Gilroy, who cannot wait for Saturday’s Pool 3 match and the visit of the reigning European champions.

“Playing them is a massive challenge for us. It’s going to be a great occasion. It’s Europe and the team that are coming are the European champions,” said Craig Gilroy, speaking at Kingspan Stadium this week.

“Toulon are full of stars but at the same time we are at home. We have fans that give us so much buzz and something to really play for.

“We respect Toulon, but at the same time we are going to take it to them, enjoy the day and show what we can do.”

The Toulon side is packed full of international stars. Matt Giteau, Mathieu Bastareaud, James O’Connor, Bryan Habana, Ali Williams, Carl Hayman and Juan Fernandez Lobbe are just some of the household names that are likely to play on Saturday afternoon.

“On paper they have some of the best players in the world representing them. Certainly you will struggle to find a team as good, but you can pump everything into a team and sometimes it doesn’t quite gel. However, having said that, there is no doubt that they have individuals who can cause you damage,” admitted the 23-year-old Ulster flyer.

“Without putting too much pressure on ourselves, we want to put in a big performance. It would be good to head down to Ireland camp with a big result at home.”

And what of Ireland? With toe injury victim Andrew Trimble sidelined for a number of months, Gilroy now has the chance to make a wing jersey his own for both province and country:

“I always try not to look too far ahead. First I need to perform in an Ulster jersey and then that will take care of itself. It’s unfortunate for Trimby but if an opportunity arises I want to take it with both hands.”