Three Changes For Ulster Ravens
Ulster Ravens head coach Gary Longwell has made three changes to the starting line-up for Saturday’s British & Irish Cup trip to play Rotherham Titans at Clifton Lane (kick-off 1pm).
Andi Kyriacou comes in to replace Nigel Brady as hooker and captain, with Callum Black and Jerry Cronin retaining the prop positions.
James Simpson and Lewis Stevenson form a new second row partnership as they replace Neil McComb and Tim Barker. The back row trio of Ali Birch, Willie Faloon and Mike McComish stays unchanged.
The entire back-line from the win over Pontypridd last weekend remains intact and includes an all-Dungannon back-three of Chris Cochrane, Conor Gaston and Peter Nelson.
The province’s replacements bench has a similar look but there are notable call-ups for David O’Mahony, who will provide cover at lock, and Stuart Olding who can play at out-half or in the centre.
The Ravens go into the last round of pool matches occupying top spot in Pool 5, with all six pool winners and the best two runners-up progressing to the quarter-finals.
A bonus point win for Gary Longwell’s side would secure a home quarter final. The last-eight clashes are due to be played on Saturday, January 21.
ULSTER RAVENS (v Rotherham Titans): Peter Nelson; Conor Gaston, Michael Allen, Chris Farrell, Chris Cochrane; James McKinney, Ian Porter; Callum Black, Andi Kyriacou (capt), Jerry Cronin, James Simpson, Lewis Stevenson, Ali Birch, Willie Faloon, Mike McComish.
Replacements: Niall Annett, Conor Carey, David O’Mahony, Neil Faloon, Blane McIlroy, Stuart Olding, Ricky Andrew.