Ulster v Newport Gwent Dragons Ulster Rugby Live

It was a wash-out couple of weeks ago with too much rain and the game

was postponed but we are good tonight as Tommy Bowe returns for

the game against the Welsh dragons. These teams met in the first match

of the season and it was Jason Tovey who proved decisive. Bolstered did

win last week with two tries against a resale but it was an uninspiring

Italian performance. -- Treviso. Better is required tonight at home.

The Ulster fans are making sure they keep warm. At least it has stopped

raining. The supporters need a break after a couple of postponed games.

All of the angles covered, we have a new stand almost ready. It will

reopen soon but it is a sell-out at the headquarters of Ulster rugby

this evening. Third against seventh place. Ulster hoping to consolidate

their place in the top four against Dragons team that beat Glasgow last

week one point. Joining me, two of Ulster 's former European CUp

winners, Ben Cunningham and Andy Ward. We are expecting Ulster to

win, considering their home record but the dragons did beat them

earlier this season? If we look at these teams on paper, you would say

Ulster should win but the Gwent Dragons had a very good win against

Glasgow and they beat Glasgow with a very good kicking game and a

strangled the life out of them. -- they strangled. It sounds like the

service but they are very good at that. Ulster will have to raise

their game and if they make mistakes, the dragons will be

difficult. It is important that Ulster are very clinical. One man

not in the Ulster team tonight is Nick Williams, he has been suspended

and was told not to go back to New Zealand and he did, missed that game

and shall we see him playing again? I didn't think the punishment will

be that severe. You will get reprimanded and some form of fine.

But he is too influential. He is an iconic care for us. His last couple

of seasons have been fantastic. Nick Williams is one of the West in the

world on the day. That will be a big call for David Humphreys? It will be

one of his biggest calls. -- best in the world. Do we have damage

limitation? He is such an icon. The teams are on their way, Ulster's

only defeat at Ravenhill has been to Glasgow back in September. See how

they get on tonight in the company of Tony and Jim Neilly.

A couple of weeks ago, it was winning the toss was all they needed

to do. Some changes upfront. On loan from Bristol, Bruce Douglas. Some

changes behind the scrum. No Jason Tovey, Steffan Jones at Number 10.

And Ross Wardle is on the left wing. The dragons did Ulster a favour last

week by disposing of one of the challenges for the top four spaces.

And Munster beat the ospreys. You must take matters into your own

hands. Another packed house well, the brand-new stand is looking

splendid. Not far from being completed. Callum Black starting in

the front row. Henderson has been released by Ireland. Johann Muller

in the second row. And the back row players together as a unit for the

third time in a row. -- plays. Rory Scholes starts for the first time.

Ruan Pienaar moving back to scrum half. Paddy Jackson at Number 10.

Tom Court and Paul Marshall notable in the replacements and no Jason

Tovey. Lloyd Linton, his first time at Ravenhill. Only his third league

game as referee. Steffan Jones. Has that gone ten

metres? I do not think so. That is not the start he wanted.

The first scrum, it goes for Ulster. Shades of Johnny Sexton at

Twickenham? Ulster will want to set their stall out early. Play with

fire in their belly. They will set the ground from a good performance.

Ulster heavier. Both averaging around 17 stone. Ruan Pienaar, back

to the scrum half is Asian. Quick turnaround, this, for Ulster. Ruan

Pienaar. Jared Payne. Robbie Deans, Iqbal. -- quick ball. Jackson. Luke

Marshall. Darren Cave. He is in such good form, scoring tries for fun at

the moment. Penalty against the dragons.

Interesting start moving inside. Harshly done by. Ashley Smith is

very strong, as we can see. He did not quite release the player and the

referee has made that early call. Ulster will be happy with that. Ruan

Pienaar has indicated he will go for the post of the Dragons. An early

boost for Ulster. Any thoughts on Paddy Jackson doing the

goal-kicking? That has been quickly dispelled. Such splendid form this

season. This is his 50th league game tonight. Fast approaching the 500

point mark. Final little glands by Ruan Pienaar.

-- glance. Will that carry? What a splendid strike. And the perfect

start for the Ulster side that was maybe looking for a bonus point win.

What a very good kick? Lovely kicking. People at home do not

underestimate the surface as well. Very sticky. Padding left foot is

very important. Superb start from Ruan Pienaar. It does go ten metres.

Well taken in. Rory Scholes, his first competitive start. Part of the

Irish Junior World Cup squad last summer. Well gathered.

That was Richie Rees, the only capped player behind the dragons. --

the Dragons. Robbie Diack with the tackle for Ulster. Steffan Jones,

trying to move it wide. Ashley Smith, the skipper, gets it halfway.

Good, quick ball. Nic Cudd, not the biggest in the world. But very

effective with the ball in hand. Well covered. Across the halfway

line by Ruan Pienaar. Paddy Jackson has to do the job of the flanker.

Luke Marshall, better stuff by Ulster. Not so good. Still there.

Darren Cave. Ulster still inside their own half. Ruan Pienaar. Well,

he saw there was nobody at home for the Dragons. Rhys Jones. Some of

Kingsley Jones. There is nobody chasing at the moment. Apart from

Robbie Diack. The referee plays advantage to Ulster. And Lloyd

Linton tells them to let it come. No advantage to Ulster. It is nice to

see Ulster playing with intent and moving the ball wide. We have fed

both of the flanks. And more importantly, whenever the Dragons

have had the ball, there is purpose in our defence. And in Treviso, that

did not happen for 80 minutes. Robbie Diack showing the virtue of a

well organised kick, chase game. Six minutes gone. Ulster 3-0 up. Lloyd

Linton not happy with that scrummage.

Nigel Correll and John Carvill are the assistance. Gordon Black is the

Commissioner. That was a good scrum from Ulster. Tommy Bowe. Good to see

him back, he has missed 12 games. Robbie Diack, having a very good

season. Ruan Pienaar again. Roger Wilson. He has only missed one match

all season. Good intensity from Ulster. Jackson.

Darren Cave. And very nearly four Tommy Bowe, he might have been under

the sticks. Clever move. Interesting to see the Dragons, lots of pressure

being put on. Pat Leach. He can see Ulster moving the ball. Rusty, but

he looks very sharp. Lovely little sleep. -- sweep. He has turned 30,

Tommy Bowe. Is he a veteran? He still has his boyish good looks and!

There are a lot of years still left on his clock. There is no doubt

about that. There is not much he has not achieved.

Nice and dry here at Ravenhill. A couple of chap fortifying

themselves. -- chaps. They have got that way, Steffan Jones has given

that a thump. Jared Payne. He has played for times at centre this

year. And that is a very good strike. That was good ground made by

the Dragons. My seat being put on by Callum Black. Able to get that pass

away in one movement. That was a good strike from Jared

Payne. That is nicely done by Richie Rees. Steffan Jones, into some

space. Well taken. He just hesitated for a little bit.

it was passed back inside the 22. Rhys Jones gathers. A little stab of

the left foot, well covered by Tommy Bowe.

Steffan Jones has given it plenty of fight. -- height.

This is interesting. Ryan Scholes back inside to Jared Payne. I think

that went forward. The referee is playing advantage on the Ulster

side. And nudged forward by a blue hand, it seems, Ulster get the

put-in. Nice play by Pienaar, the long ranging pass found Jared

Payne. And he got near the gain line, got his hands in. It was

Marshall, not Rory Scholes who took it down the wing.

That is nice, a bit of a smile. I thought it was going to be an

evening for friends. Luke Marshall are still hoping -- is still hoping

to be involved in the current Six Nations campaign for Ireland.

Iain Henderson rushing back. Tackled outside the 22. Not a lot of room

for anyone to be doing any kicking. Johann Muller leading his side

tonight for the 65thth time -- 65th time.

Was that not backward by Matthew Pewtner?

Richie Rees couldn't hold it. A big hole suddenly appeared. And it will

be worrying for the coaching squad. It is somewhere Ulster have been in

deficit all season, ran the wrecking ball. We see Robbie Diack make the

tackle but Callum Black gets caught to why. Richie Rees will be

disappointed -- Callum Black gets caught too wide. A huge gap was made

available to Groves. Like so many of this Newport Gwent Dragons inside,

played underage rugby for Wales, from under 16s all the way up to

under 20s. The scrum is spinning around and the

referee will not allow you ruin -- Ruan Pienaar to put the ball in.

Douglas has been playing in Bristol, and with one or two

injuries and the suspension of the Argentinian forward, chap Arrow, who

got ten weeks for a nasty spear tackle, they are short -- Chaparro.

The brass band is striking up, let's see if Ulster can respond.

Roger Wilson as ever controls the scrum.

Not a great pass by Pienaar, not a great kick by Jackson.

Well covered by Rhys Jones. Abergavenny born. Rhys Thomas leaves

it. You Evans made some ground. Here comes Darren Cave, with Luke

Marshall outside him. Inside to Pienaar. I think Pienaar is going

all the way. What a try by Pienaar. Just brought down but he stretched

and he scored. Those are the chances you have to take. If you get a half

chance, you have to bury it. Pienaar comes across in field, opens himself

up to make the pass to Cave. Pienaar tells him he is available inside.

Jared Payne takes the catch and makes the pass to Cave. Pienaar is

inside telling him he is there. Just about has the legs to get there. He

did the sensible thing. If he stayed upright, he might not have got

there. He dived away from the line and his momentum and this giddy

surface got him there. Yes, the ball was safely tucked into one arm, it

is not going to move. Ride the tackle and get five points.

He has had, from an Ulster perspective, a knack of making it

the Ruan Pienaar show. No mistake, doesn't matter who kicks

it, whether it is Pienaar Jackson, it is still two points. Also looking

to play the wider space and with a back three of a rejuvenated

Scholes, Jackson Paine, it is about taking the opportunities.

Douglas, 34 years of age. Won his first Scottish cup 12 years ago.

Steffan Jones Miliband the gap, well tackled by Luke Marshall. This is

enterprising stuff -- Steffan Jones nearly found the gap.

That is not forward. A speculative kick by Darren Cave. He didn't have

much time and knew it was going to get brought into the scrum anyway.

The Dragons are not getting a lot of change out of the Ulster defence and

they are listening to the referee. He has been informative at the

breakdown, telling the Tatler, picking out the numbers, they aren't

listening and not getting involved in is giving away silly penalties.

And as well as giving the game flow, it is putting Ulster on the front

foot. The next game here at Ravenhill is the proposed game

against the Scarlets, postponed because of the island game -- the

final Ireland game of the Six Nations.

It is going to be a very interesting running in the lead. Ulster have

three tough final fixtures, away to Glasgow, at home to Leinster, away

to Munster. Pienaar here showing them all a pretty clean pair of

heels and he dived and his momentum got him there. Right place, right

time once again. The sign of a good player.

A hefty slap on the back to Ruan Pienaar to tell him to put the ball

in. Good scrum, good control and penalty against the visitors, the

first scrum penalty. Lots of applause all round. Robbie Dayak

giving his tight front fors a good thumping -- Robbie Diack. What a

good kick by Pienaar. A lovely strike, it just soars through the

air to perfection. Ulster have a line-out putting deep inside the

Dragons half. And with the fullback having to stay back with potentially

Tommy Bowe and Jared Payne, extra numbers.

Ulster win it on the ground, a great piece of stealing by the inform

Diack. -- in form. Rory Scholes couldn't quite grab,

well covered by Rhys Jones and because the referee said the

advantage was over, Rhys Jones could kick it. But he hasn't made much in

the way of ground. A clever kick by Paddy Jackson, a move they have used

throughout the season. Rory Scholes the potential benefactor in this

occasion. Rhys Jones covering well. Jackson looked up and saw the

numbers outweighed him. Good cover by the fullback.

It has been tough for Paddy Jackson, he spent all week with the Irish

squad. The whole Ulster back row working

well together. Scrum to the Dragons. That is a bit sloppy. When she were

in that end zone, you have to be going through the phases, holding

onto the ball -- once you are in. Ulster slightly exposed, almost

going past the ball too far which allows the Dragons' French defenders

to come in and force the turnover. -- fringe. I have a feeling that is

Luke Marshall down injured. Gareth Robinson, the physio, and the senior

doctor are down there. This could be a first senior cap for Stuart

McCluskey, who is a pretty big unit. Anxious times, straightaway

the medical team on the field. Johann Muller just trying to keep

his players focused as best he can. Always tough when you have one of

your players down injured, you don't know whether to go over and do

something or keep concentrating. First and foremost, you clear out of

the way, give the medical staff a chance to get there and assess the

situation and give the best care. It is also a chance to get some

hydration on board. And also just a chance to regroup, look at what they

have done well, look to see where they are on the pitch and decide

what the next play is. The Dragons have the ball so there will be some

sort of impetus being talked about in terms of trying to put the

squeeze on the Dragons' scrum. Marshall took it forward into

contact. He was tackled by Steffan Jones and I think an Ulster foot

came through, Ricky Lutton might have accidentally caught him and I

think that is what may be caused a bit of a bang. But he is up. Is he

looking bright eyed and bushy tailed? Stuart McCluskey is not

completely stripped off. Up he gets. Oh, yes. He has had his problems in

the past, at the end of last season, two or three weeks in a row when he

got himself into trouble and that is going to be the end of the evening

for a Luke Marshall, which is very unfortunate. Looking unsmiling, that

is always a good sign. I think this is precautionary -- looking

unsmiling. Safety first at all times, get him off, get him assessed

and a big opportunity for Stuart McCluskey. It will be interesting to

see what he can do. And he is a big fellow. Luke Marshall, his evening

has ended. It'll be the scrummage for the Dragons. All the seats in

the brand-new stand will be occupied for the Heineken Cup quarterfinal

against Saracens. That is a free kick for putting it in crooked.

Ulster might offer the scrummage again? Possibly. They have started

very well and they have had a chat and a front row and they have got

the opposite number and the heat comes on. That is pretty clear. And

the referee has called that. He had a spell with Cardiff Blues. 22

minutes. 10-0. And Ulster giveaway the free kick themselves. Just over

enthusiastic. They have given it away and they would not be surprised

if the Dragons go for touch. Jones has found that! There is not much

that Tommy Bowe can do about that. They have conceded 15 metres. There

was no need for that? Just overly aggressive. Obviously trying to get

the side of their scrum up. Trying to create some space. And it has not

taken very much for the referee to blow his whistle. Callum Black.

Johann Muller. And he was interfered with. Penalty given away by the

Dragons. Ulster not reacting very well tonight. Rhys Thomas comes in.

Lloyd Linton will want to keep a lid on this. I do not think it will boil

over. There is dampness in the air around

Ravenhill. That was not straight but it does

not matter, back inside. Tommy Bowe gets away! This will be his second

try! And what a return to Ulster collars for Tommy Bowe! And that

will bring a little smile to the face of the Irish coach, Joe

Schmidt. Is any better winger who runs the blind side like that? After

that shaky line-out, Johann Muller does very well. Speed and purpose.

There was no way back from there. Beautiful pass. Look at Tommy Bowe,

you can see the determination. His shoulders hunched up with that

effort. You can see what it means to him and his colleagues, who are just

so pleased to have him back. Well, the excitement is echoing

around Ravenhill. It looks like Paddy Jackson is the man to take the

short range kicking. Does he like that? He should! Right between the

posts. Yearly 25 minutes and Ulster are 17-0 up. -- nearly. After the

inquest into the injury, Paddy is very much in the frame for next

weekend. It makes sense for him to be kicking this evening. Taken in by

Robbie Diack. Ruan Pienaar. There is a gap. That was well taken by Lewis

Evans. There is a gap in this narrow side. Matthew Pewtner. Nicely laid

back. Steffan Jones. Rhys Jones. Solid defence by Ulster. The referee

is having a good look to see if Ulster are offside in the middle.

Rhys Thomas very nearly came through. It has been knocked

forward. Advantage to Ulster. Paddy Jackson. Sean Doyle. Rory Scholes.

Good play by the flanker. Here comes Henderson. Darren Cave. Stuart

McCloskey. Ruan Pienaar. Ruan Pienaar again! Tommy Bowe! He will

get his second in almost as many minutes! Can you believe that?

Sensational stuff from Tommy Bowe! There is a smile on the face of Joe

Schmidt. What will he do about Irish selection? Tommy Bowe is absolutely

producing brilliance. You could hear him screaming. And Darren Cave did

the right thing, he stayed up. Tommy Bowe, he just looks so powerful with

his legs. He has obviously been out for quite a while but he almost

looks a good and he did before. -- looks bigger. Winding back the

clock! And Paddy Jackson makes good the conversion. Ulster rapidly

approaching one point every minute. 24-0. When you have wingers of that

ability, who can make things happen out of nothing, it is that game

awareness. The ability to put himself into the right position. You

cannot really teach that. It has been a frustrating period for Tommy

Bowe and he could not be happier. Here is his opposite number. Tommy

Bowe, that is 54 tries. He is top of the Celtic League. Clever little

kick from Jackson. And here he is again! This is good stuff! Darren

Cave has done well. Here is Stuart McCloskey. Looking for his first

try! Henderson was not far away! He looks like a bigger version of Tommy

Bowe. Again, very clever play. Darren Cave finds itself exposed on

the wing and a call from inside, and they're pointing and shouting, it

was Stuart McCloskey and Henderson, or in the position. Iain Henderson,

outstripping the three quarters line to just get there. I think the

referee has gone upstairs. To see if there was any obstruction. Will that

we a yellow card? And with the try have been scored? -- would the try.

He was looking to get that inside. Look at Henderson. Was he

obstructed? I do not think he was. That would be harsh. The Dragons

would be relieved if they did get away with this one. He picks it up

and takes it over. It was not clear, unless any other

angles. That is fine. Carried over by blue. So, carried over by the

blue player. In this case, Nic Cudd. Five metres from the line. Coming

into 30 minutes played. Ulster 24-0. They have not had a bonus point

victory since round number eight. They need to keep picking up bonus

points. Good control from Roger Wilson.

Ulster trying to get the squeeze and the crowd is behind them. Ruan

Pienaar, going forward and they get the penalty. Could be another scrum.

Into touch? I think they will take the scrum again. Will teams will go

for two of them because that does take you very close to try time.

That was nice control from Roger Wilson at the back. Ruan Pienaar was

in no hurry. Rather beleaguered looking Dragons front row.

They get it right this time. They will couple for the scrum. And that

is another penalty. -- will call. And it has collapsed. On the loose

head side of the Dragons. If they infringe for a third time... That

would definitely be a penalty try. And the Dragons are holding their

hands in the air. I think they know that they are under big pressure,

here. Ulster just have to keep a hammer on them. Let us keep it up.

Thank you. The surface is starting to cut up. The referee has brought

them in field. By about three metres. The blind side is exposed. I

think Ulster will try to force a try or even a penalty.

Lloyd Linton wants them closer. The front and second rows take some time

to get some mod between their stance. -- mud between their studs.

You can hear a voice saying, come on, Ricky. Here we go again. Here

comes the secondary shelves. -- shove. Penalty, yet again, standing

up. Somebody is going to go to the sin bin, I would think. Number one?

I'm sure that he means the loose head, Evans. For deliberately

standing up. They will have to bring on a replacement prop, which means

taking off one of the back row or a forward and foster do not get a

penalty from this, I would be very surprised. You will not see the ball

leave the feet of Roger Wilson at the next scrum. Interesting decision

to put the man in the sin bin. Penalised as an individual as

opposed to the unit. Perhaps the penalty would have been a better

option and would keep those teams at 15. 32 minutes.

Number 17, Nathan Williams, is coming on. 30 years old. This left

sleeve has been cut back. There is nothing to grab onto. So, Nathan

Williams has come on. That is a fairly hefty arm! I would not want

to arm wrestle him for the price of a pint of Guinness! I might beat

him! Can Ulster squeeze something out of this? Penalty try!

Straightaway. Whether that was deliberate when the feet, it does

not matter. Because Lloyd Linton has marched between the posts of the

Dragons and has given the penalty try and with seven minutes

remaining, that is if with Ulster try and a bonus point try. That was

always on the cards. That was their best scrum, perversely. It is just

the intent. And at this level, it is never good to go any other way. But

Ulster have shown good intent. Leading from the front. And Ulster

are making that advantage count up front. Set piece domination. Paddy

Jackson has added a third conversion. In fact, a fourth

conversion. Ulster looking pretty comfortable. You have got to feel a

certain amount of sympathy for the Dragons, but that did collapse.

Rory Scholes must be enjoying his senior Ulster debut. He came off the

bench in the last two games. Ulster crowding the middle of the

field and giving away, I think, the first penalty of the evening. The

Dragons backline are buried deep whenever Ulster have the ball so

whenever they kick, they are kicking into the no man's land in between.

As well as bringing the winger is full back onto it, it gives Ulster a

chance to chase. -- the wingers and the fullback. And Iain Henderson is

very good at the chase. Ryan Jones is going to go for the

Ulster posts, they are not terribly enamoured in the crowd. They wonder

why, with your team adrift, but you never know, five or six penalties

and you are back in this. Rhys Jones scored a couple of last-gasp

conversions in the win over high-flying Glasgow a couple of

weeks ago. Good, solid strike. It is not the

Dragons' night! And what a fine kick by Ruan Pienaar. One bounce and into

touch, just inside the Dragons' half. Super strike, coming off the

post. And Pienaar finds himself in the right place at the right time.

Seize the touchline exposed and it was able to find a long touch.

Didn't look altogether straight but the referee is happy.

Tommy Bowe will be pretty pleased with his evening's work so far.

Clever kick by Cave, because he saw Rhys Jones had closed up. It was a

smart kid. He would have liked it to stay in play. The difference between

the teams is Ulster on moving the ball with pace, getting into the

wings quickly and it is giving them a chance to observe the options in

front of them and select the right one. They have been very comfortable

with ball in hand. Just under three minutes remaining until half-time.

Ulster with four tries. Pienaar does it again, charges it

down. A quick Ulster ball could make this interesting.

Cave couldn't quite hold. The referee playing advantage for the

knock-on. The Dragons are trying to move it.

Stephan Jones will kick and all-star offside, Diack the man and Little

Keane --. Our offside. How many times have we seen Pienaar charged

down a kick? Here is the angle again, Darren Cave taking his eye

off the ball, saw the defender coming in. Ulster are venomous in

defence, they are looking for the tackle, looking to make contact and

stopping the opposition before the game line, and it is a big, big

difference to what we saw in the real lacklustre performance last

week in Italy, which really did leave a lot to be desired. Yes, I

think there was a fair bit of maybe not so much soul-searching but

backside kicking. And it was needed, it was the poorest performance for a

long time in a white shirt. I think they knew that. Just over a minute

until the interval. That is well taken by the big centre

Patrick Leach. Is there something in this for the Dragons?

There is no room on that narrow side.

This is the closest the Dragons have come. First time they have been

inside the Ulster 22. Seemed to be knocked forward by

Pienaar. And that is construed to be a deliberate knock forward. A

deliberate knock forward, should be going to the pocket, maybe? It will

be a penalty and the Dragons might just get points. A ripe old cheer

from the crowd. Harsh call? Possibly, half a yard offside as

well. But good defending by Ulster. The scramble defence is good, they

are filling the channel is much better about the ruck, not leaving

space for people to step for breach. The defensive coach will be very

happy to see that. And he makes no mistake with that,

but it has been a very dominant opening 40 minutes from Ulster. An

early penalty by Ruan Pienaar, who then scored a try, a couple from

Tommy Bowe and a penalty try and conversions from Paddy Jackson and

right at the end, Rhys Jones puts it between the Ulster posts. It has

been the Pienaar and Bowe show so far, but everyone else has played

their part. Ulster will be very happy, infinitely better than the

one in Treviso six days ago. A bonus point secured at the moment, can

they kick on and make it even better?

STUDIO: That was an enjoyable 40 minutes, normal service is resumed.

Ruan Pienaar directing operations, showing his class, Jared Payne. Four

tries in all, one for Pienaar and Tommy Bowe back with a bang. His

first game in three months, two tries to him and a penalty try

before half-time means it is all smiles and the bonus point already

in the bag. Ulster leading 31-3 but, more importantly, you would

have to say that is the 5-point already secured. Bryn Cunningham and

Andy Ward have been enjoying a great first half of rugby. Gentlemen, that

was more like it? Yes, what a difference a week makes. Ulster were

outstanding, showing great enterprise in the back three in

particular. I don't want to take away from the Ulster performance,

but the Dragons have been very poor. Defensively, they have lacked

structure, they have sat off the play a lot, which is very unlike

them. Normally, they are very much in your face, they put pressure on

you and force mistakes. They are not doing that. The set pieces have been

very good and it has given the backs a bit of space and if you give guys

like Jared Payne, Cave, Bowe space, there will be problems. Lots to look

at and if you are going to allow Ulster to play, they have a backline

which can damage you. Especially when you have a player like Jared

Payne, who can create a bit of class.

On a number of occasions and Jared Payne only need to sniff -- they

have been exposed on a number of occasions. Jared Payne only needs to

have a sniff. This is tight, no writer to do what he did here. They

are just hanging off him but he has spotted that space before he got

into it. Darren Cave has done exceptionally well and this is

class. He knew he wasn't quite getting there so he went a little

lower. Had he gone another two steps, that try might not have

happened. Counterattacking rugby at its best. It was wonderful and Jared

Payne sometimes does little things you don't notice. You can see the

camera angle from behind, he shows the ball and it holds two defenders

and allows the space for the wide pass and Darren Cave. Very clever.

It is a great asset to have, and any child watching Jared Payne play

rugby, carrying the ball into hands, it is the way to buy. And an

exhibition of wing play, look no further from Tommy Bowe, what a

comeback, from the very first touch. Here's a man possessed, he has been

out for so long. You think you are going to be back in a few weeks and

it is longer. You can see he's getting his hands on the, he is

hungry. -- on the ball. The sign of a player that switches into top gear

straightaway. Good footwork again, doing all the things well and this

is his first try. It is a great move, he hits the line beautifully.

You wouldn't know he had been out of rugby for so long, there is no

rustiness whatsoever and he looks so exciting, so explosive and fresh and

powerful. Darren Cave, very creative for Tommy's second score. Darren

Cave I think has the highest amount of off-loads in the PRO12 and the

highest try conversion rate, in terms of giving that last pass. He

has no right to get through that whole and get that pass away but

Tommy, he reached the play well -- through that hole. He gets onto the

ball very quickly. It is another great line, split the defence and

the difference for Tommy now, having been out for a while, he has put a

bit of pork on his legs and if you don't tackle him hard, he is going

to get through every single time, just accelerate away. He almost has

legs like you in your heyday. Not quite as powerful. Darren Cave again

involved, Ulster could have had another great score before the

penalty try. Darren has had a wonderful season, creating off-loads

opportunities and going into situations understanding what he is

trying create. Early doors, he knows he can't get the Pask, too much

interference in the way, so the next option... It is the luck of the

bounce and it is a great slow motion. And the referee had no

choice here, had to be a penalty try? I was thinking here, just throw

the ball out to the backs, what a boring way to score a try! Know,

great from the forwards, dominated the set piece again, the line-out

has been outstanding -- no. They are dominating every facet of play and

the Dragons look out of -- on their feet. Fingers crossed, there is a

big second-half performance because I have seen it before where it

hasn't happened. As you can see, the new Ravenhill Stadium is coming

along very nicely. It will be completely finished for made the

third and will officially open on that date for the Leinster game. --

May 3rd. One that is already finished as the state-of-the-art

Ulster gym, it is the envy of teams right across Europe and we got a

sneak look inside. What we have created is unique in

the world of rugby. Everybody has heard about the gym facility and

they wanted to see it. Five years ago we had the opportunity to design

a facility with architects and it has been steps toward making this

happen, making it reality. It is like the feeling of daylight within

the environment, white lights and walls. It feels right.

Within the environment change, you can change the mood and the

feel-good factor and people want to be here and want to spend time here

and I do not think that can be replicated any time soon. It will

take people some time to catch up to what we have done. With the

platforms, we can have four men each, do the mathematics and we can

have one squad. They are not as successful as they are by mistake,

it is designed, they are competitive and they always try to outdo each

other. If you have a lot of players on the floor, you have to have the

strength and conditioning coaches as well to make sure the work is being

done. Looking at the numbers in their diaries. Strength is the

biggest prevention tool against injury you can have. But the

environment we have created, with the strength and power scores, we

are seeing that improvement. We want to stay ahead of the curve and work

of that mantra of being the best. Putting Ulster Rugby on the map in

more than one way. We want to win games and trophies but we can have

some fun along the way by creating something like this. Well, the

Ulster fans will not have seen inside that gym just yet but I can

tell you, it is fantastic and the new stand which is being opened for

that game in May is state-of-the-art also. I had a sneak look and it has

a massive oval dressing room for the home team, a couple of big bars for

the fans and I have to say, it is a fantastic addition to this Ravenhill

Stadium. One man who will be using the gym quite a lot over the next

couple of weeks will be Dan Tuohy, who had a great Six Nations

Championship before being injured. Talk is through how the injury is

coming on. You have spent time in that great facility? It is coming

along good, 3.5 weeks after surgery and it feels great and it has been a

pleasure coming to work early to this facility. It is a great change

from new Forge, really refreshing for us. All of the opposing teams

are very jealous of this, they go green? We were showing them around

today, and I saw their physio, and they were very impressed. You were

injured, talk us through the highs and lows of the Six Nations. It was

quite short lived. To get that win against Scotland and straight down

during the week after against Wales but that is part of a professional

career and I have been fortunate not to pick up too many injuries. I will

try to get back as soon as I can. Tommy Bowe is looking good, will he

give Joe Schmidt something to think about? He is looking strong, I am

watching this with Andrew Trimble. But he is looking good, but also a

lot of the guys are and they have played extremely well after last

week. We have kept a few people quiet. When will we see you back?

Hopefully in a few weeks. The surgery is going well, they gave me

good feedback. Saracens is a possibility. If Dan Tuohy can make

it back, that is good news? That is why he got called to the Irish

squad, he is a very big man and carries the ball well and that is a

very nice balance when he is up there with Johann Muller, he does

the graft. And Dan gets into those wider channels and causes havoc. It

is a very nice balance. It will be a difficult second half for the

Dragons. And difficult for Ulster as well to just maintain their focus? I

would agree. It will be difficult for the Dragons, if Ulster continue

playing. And that is my big fear. The job is done, points in the bag.

Let's go out and have a little bit, here. Ulster need to keep turning

the screw and hopefully it will be a super tough night for the Dragons.

You want to see Ulster continuing? Yes, we have seen in the past Ulster

having a very dominant first half, and in the second they just fade

away. A lot of that would be down to the opposition, but let us hope

Ulster can continue to put some impressive tries together. Thank you

very much. We hope you're enjoying this. Sit back and enjoy the second

half, confident in the knowledge that the bonus point is already in

the bag. Back to the commentary. The Dragons back. Johann Muller

brings Ulster back. I think the evening for Tommy Bowe is over.

Having scored two tries, he put himself very much in the frame for

consideration for the Six Nations. He has given way to David McIlwaine.

And Darren Cave will be playing. No stranger to Ulster colours. This is

his 19th cap. And his 15th in the league.

Paddy Jackson getting the second half under way. That has gone into

no man's land. They might well have capitalised. The Dragons have a

better field position to clear their lines. Here they come again. Ulster

told to leave it alone. It has gone into the middle of the park. Paddy

Jackson lets it go. That was a nasty one but he has managed to get it.

Roger Wilson. Good defence. Here come Ulster again. Ruan Pienaar.

What a lovely sidestep at full tilt. Jackson. Good support play. That has

been spilled. And the Dragons or on the attack. Will they kick and

chase? Jackson will have to be smart about this. And he has been. But he

has got himself caught. That was a very clever piece of defensive

kicking by the Dragons. Ruan Pienaar. Great stuff by Ulster!

Jared Payne! He has got Rhys Jones coming. Good covering by Rhys Jones.

And that really should have been number five for Ulster. If we get a

chance to see that again, there was a great clear from the ruck. Jackson

found himself exposed. Stuart McCloskey was able to regain the

ball for Ulster. He does not quite have the Wales together. -- feet to

get there. Steffan Jones. Jason Tovey, he was supposed to be on the

bench. He had five penalties back in November. Roger Wilson and Sean

Doyle taken out of the line-up from Ulster. Robbie Diack could have done

with some more people in closer support. There was nobody really

with Richie Rees, but that was a very clever move. Rhys Thomas, he

just holds off and stop Robbie Diack was through. As you say, Richie Rees

has just gone in there and has slowed the ball down. The Dragons

are still dying to only 14 men. I don't think Evans is back on the

field. The referee going over to the point where he wants the scrum to

take this. Only three minutes played. Ulster still leading, 31-3.

One penalty try, a couple from Tommy Bowe and one from Ruan Pienaar.

Free kick against Ulster for just nudging forward. He gave the free

kick and then changed his mind and give the penalty because it was a

second offence. Consistency. The players know exactly where they

stand. The scrum still has to be a contest and we want that but, again,

you have to play to the letter of the law.

Line-out to the Dragons. Rhys Thomas. Well taken in by Cory Hill.

Only 22 years of age. Ulster trying to squeeze the Dragons back. He has

signed a pretty good touch. That was a good strike by the scrum half. 30

years of age. His first cap against England in 2010. He looked like he

would be in for a very long spell but he did not -- but it did not

happen. Stuart McCloskey. Ruan Pienaar. Had to readjust. Rory

Scholes is through! He will get his first try Next -- first trying! .

And Sean Doyle gets his second try. Well, they looked like they would

make heavy weather of that but they got there in the end. And Rory

Scholes was tantalisingly close. Almost a carbon copy of Tommy Bowe

in the first-half. With Ruan Pienaar running from the base this time.

Rory Scholes was coming very late. He made it extremely difficult for

the defence to see that. It was just that trip that stops him. But he had

the composure to reset and get the ball back.

Paddy Jackson, who kicked for convergence in the first-half.

Looking for his fifth conversion of the evening. And that was a

confident strike. Perfect range for Paddy Jackson. 38-3. We're having a

problem with the electronic clock, you can see. What a talent, this

youngster is. He did his very best. Ulster sensibly moved the ball. Sean

Doyle was unopposed. Ulster Rhydian the ball from the kick. Jackson.

That was enormous. There was some space. That was good for the long

one. Jackson. Nice presentation from Jackson. Ruan Pienaar. Robbie Diack.

Matthew Screech. Into touch. That was magnificent from the restart by

Johann Muller. That gave him a majestic lift. He plucked that from

the sky. Wayne Evans is going to come on. He joined from Cardiff.

Over 150 games for the Dragons. Ulster interfering with the man

going for the ball in the air. And Lloyd Linton has given the Dragons

the penalty. No messing about this time. Straight into touch. I am

pretty sure that ten minutes is up. Nathan Williams is still on the

field. Perhaps they are sticking with him. I think the Dragons are

back to ten. He is there. That was good defence from Ulster. That was a

very good driving maul from the Dragons. Ulster have to be careful.

Still going. Ulster's posts within touching distance. Wayne Evans, the

replacement. That was not held. And was knocked forward. The Dragons

will be kicking themselves. Good defence from Ulster and that is

something they have done well this evening, they have taken the

line-out and have been prepared to stay on the ground. You heard the

referee saying that was fine. That is the way you have to come. They

will give away penalties by dropping it. Through the middle is fine and

if we take this forward to the Saracens game, but is a very big

weapon that they use. They have Dan Tuohy, Craig Gilroy,

Trimble to come back. Let's see the shoulder as well,

please. Ricky Lutton at tight head for Ulster, went with the emerging

Ireland squad last summer and played all three games as a replacement. He

has done a pretty good job so far this evening. But that is a good

squeeze by the Dragons, just as we say that. And the penalty I think

against the Dragons' loosehead for driving at an illegal angle. Just a

lack of concentration. Yes, illegality from the Dragons as well

but it is the first time at scrum this evening that the Ulster

concentration has waned. Mark Anscombe, Johnny Borrell -- Bell

there. With the rugby ball shape and the

laws of physics, there was always a chance that wasn't going to bounce

of the way he wanted. The Ulster line-up has been 100% completion.

But that last one, that is what causes the courage to pull his hair

red, taking clean ball and then you slow it down and lose your momentum

-- pull his hair out. Schools will have rejoined his first

senior cup as with daughter -- Rory Scholes. -- Rory Scholes will have

enjoyed his first senior cap as a starter.

McCluskey using that strength of his.

Cave has got away. He needed someone at his elbow. Clever switch. Rory

Scholes denied. Backend side to Ricky Lutton. The tight head is not

too far away. Ulster have the ball. Hand came through, was it illegal?

Yes, it was. Is going to be a yellow card? It was the replacement

scrum-half that came through. It was naughty but was it worth the other

card? Maybe not. It was certainly more blatant than Pienaar's in the

first half. They have been happy to switch to the blind-side and are

always getting to the game line, time after time. Rory Scholes has a

bit of cramp. That is not allowed. It was a naughty one. Good work by

Darren Cave, he did the right thing holding onto the ball.

I think Scholes is fine, he is up again. But I think they are making

the sign that they want a replacement on and the only back

replacement they have is Paul Marshall because Luke Marshall has,.

-- has gone off. And the Dragons are making a replacement. Bruce Douglas

is going off, to be replaced by the even older, if he doesn't mind me

saying so, 40 on his next birthday, the formidable figure of Duncan

Bell, who battled away on the front row for Bath for what seemed like

half a century. Capped five times for England. Of course the Scotsman,

on comes the Englishman to play for the Welsh side. -- off goes the

Scotsman. The referee has given the penalty

and I think also have the option of popping into the corner and going

for another five metre scrum. I think the way the scrum has gone,

they will look there first. The referee looks like he is delving

into his pocket, so Gwent could be down to 14. Ulster have set their

stall out well this evening and used it well, not as effectively as they

want to. I will give you a second to have a word with him there. Lloyd

Linton having a word with the Dragons skipper Ashley Smith, who

has taken over from Andrew Coombs in that respect. Ulster have all three

back replacement on. Great take by Johann Muller. Was it the number

one? It was, wait evidence. He has already been in the bin. -- Evans.

Ulster still have the ball. The Dragons have overrun it. Looking for

try number six. If anybody deserves a try, it is

Robbie Diack. Get it to McIlwaine, yes! Try number

six. They may go back to see if it is a forward pass and if it is not,

David McIlwaine has got his first Ulster try. Sensitive to Peter

Ferguson to check. McIlwaine, I have a feeling, might have just got that

but it depends on whether the pass from Jared Payne was a good one.

What do you think? It is all in the hands these days, isn't it? I think

that is flat at best, shall we say? McIlwaine had to take it behind him.

I think he is half a yard in front of that. It is a nice angle but the

pass is just maybe slightly late. Here comes Jared Payne, David

McIlwaine sensibly came inside. And he brushed aside the tackle of Ross

Wardle, who has had a very quiet evening. The parcel slightly

forward. OK, scrum five, blue ball. -- the pass was. It is going to be a

five metre scrum and a Dragons put in. And David McIlwaine, not a

man... He will be disappointed. He is a big, leggy fellow, lots of

pace. The crowd getting behind the men in

white. Wayne Evans, the replacement

scrum-half with the put-in. Didn't look desperately straight.

What overrun by Iain Henderson. Knocked back on the Dragons' side

and into space. It was unfortunate, try number 64 Ulster was looking

pretty good. chip and chase, foot on the gas by

Cave. Good pick-up. Slings it back inside, knocked back into a

Dragons' hand. Pewtner managed to cover back. Allstate doing

everything but get at the sixth try. -- Ulster.

The crowd are fairly getting value for money this evening.

Just a nudge forward. Just a for money this evening.

Just a nudge forward. Just a knock-on. There are 30 players out

there that are very happy with the referee blowing his whistle. A lot

of guys are just there with their hands on their knees, sucking in

oxygen. Fantastic passage of play. The intent is there. Darren Cave was

unlucky there, trying to go for the instinctive pass inside and it was

slapped down. Lots of entertainment for the crowd.

On the left, the very familiar figure of the veteran Rob Sidoli,

with caps dating back to the South Africa game in 2002. And 22 is Lewis

Robling, coming on for his 15th league game. Stephan Jones is going

off, I am sorry to say, injured -- Steffan Jones. So Sidoli and

Roebling run. -- Lewis Robling are wrong. -- on.

It is unfortunate, leaving the field injured.

Those tries in the first half, to buy Tommy Bowe, one by Pienaar and a

penalty try. In the second half, Sean Doyle got over the opposition

line, convergence by Paddy Jackson. Did Jared Payne knock that on? He

did. A bit of a change in the front row. Hugh Gustafson is on for Rhys

Thomas. That doesn't happen too often, does it pressure Mark just a

horrible bounce, we have seen a few of those, the ball has spun quite

hard with a lot of topspin on it and Jared Payne was unlucky. Maybe

should have, but the foot rather than trying to pick it up with his

hands -- should have gone with the foot.

The referee not happy. The assistant has called his attention to

something going on on the far side involving Callum Black and Duncan

Bell. He has not played competitive rugby for a couple of years, he has

been coaching the junior side. And he is not getting any smaller!

Ulster get a good squeeze. What a good scrum. And up comes the front

row from the Dragons. Ricky Lutton deserves a lot of credit, he has

done very well. Watch what he does. Square, and he puts the squeeze on

and there is no option for the Dragons. Alan Clark is beside us.

Forcing the opposition number to stand of and he can then only go one

way, and that is backwards. Tom Court is coming out. He is off to

London Irish at the end of the season. And his charming wife has

done so much to help the overseas wives to settle into Northern

Ireland. They will both be missed. Sean Doyle. That was well released.

Paddy Jackson. Ruan Pienaar was reading up nicely. Where is he

going? And Ulster have contrived to lose that. Just the finishing

touches from the first-half have deserted Ulster. They should have

had even more daylight between themselves and the Dragons, we have

find the space. -- who have. That was scruffy. He will be

disappointed, there. That was a very nice option coming inside. Once you

have primacy, you cannot afford to turn the ball over cheaply. In the

gear games, later on, Ulster have to treat the ball as if they cannot

give it away. That was too easy in that situation. -- bigger games.

Jones has come on for the Dragons. And Ulster are bringing on another

replacement. I think it is Mike McComish. Some readjustment. Paddy

Jackson has gone off. Sean Doyle might be posted under the wing. In

the meantime, Wayne Evans. Pat Leach. Jones, again. That was good

from Cory Hill. Wayne Evans. The Dragons coming back to this a little

bit bored -- a little bit more. Evans. That was well set up by the

men in blue. Roger Wilson not buying that attempted to me. That was good

defence from Ulster. -- dummy. They have given away the penalty. Taken

quickly. This could be interesting. Nic Cudd, or one from the start.

Good defence from Ulster. Duncan Bell. This will be a tribe perhaps?

Has he gone over the line? Very close. -- a try. Looking for his

seventh try in the colours of the Dragons. But I'd concentrate the

minds of Ulster a little bit. There is no question, he has clearly got

that. Ulster on the back foot, happy to defend the outside shoulder but

that was a great set of hands from Duncan Bell. That was brought down

short. Did he carry that over, there was second movement? He came a

little bit short. They are... That was short. The momentum takes over.

It might have. That is not conclusive. This is more like it. If

we cancel that time. Not much more than a coat of paint in that. But

I'd be a try. The Dragons certainly think so. -- that might be. Peter

Ferguson says the try is good. And the Dragons have got their first

try. Jones, he has pulled that across the

face of the posts. Well, that is a much more even second half. Ulster

well ahead of the interval and they are conceding their first try of the

evening. Lovely pass. Nic Cudd was perfect. In fairness, Sean Doyle is

playing on the right wing and has been caught watching the ball. Any

winger at this level has to be able to score those. He has just about

squeezed over but that was deserved, nicely taken. Cory Hill has been

taken off for a blood replacement. Matthew Screech has been replaced by

Rob Sidoli. This is Matthew Screech. The ten metre line. Wayne Evans. Nic

Cudd. He gave that scoring pass. David McIlwaine needs to be smart.

Has he made that available? He has. Jared Payne on the outside half

position. Tom Court. Ruan Pienaar, looking to see what is available.

Surely Pat Leach was offside? Luke Marshall was sitting among his

team-mates and looking pretty comfortable. It might have been that

stray bullet that caught him on the side of the head. -- boot. He has

put in a pretty good shift this evening. We are more accustomed to

seeing him playing at six. He has done the dark and dirty stuff well.

Chasing a lot of kicks and he has tackled well. He has put in the

effort. Only the fifth time this season he has started a game for

Ulster. Ruan Pienaar. He made that good. Jared Payne, gets it away!

Sean Doyle, just did not have the gas. Nine out of ten for effort. He

was a little bit worried about his hamstring going, there. Tommy Bowe,

that would have been a beautifully measured pass. Sean Doyle just did

not have the reach to pull but in. Jared Payne just collided. That was

very nearly another Ulster try. Hugh Gustafson. Well, again, full

marks to the Dragons for enterprise. That was good tackling from Rob

Herring. That will give Ulster and the line-out. -- the line-out. Only

22 years of age. Played in the World Cup side a couple of summers ago.

Ricky Lutton is leaving the field, having had a pretty good night for

Ulster. Good to see him playing back at Ravenhill. Adam Macklin, 24,

coming on. Takes his position behind Robbie

Diack. Henderson does it, and it was not straight. Those are the things

that frustrate cultures. Mark Anscombe is talking to himself and

the other coaches about this, fundamental mistakes. There is no

need for it. As you say, Ulster are just struggling to reach third gear.

That was a cast iron opportunity and a great is issuing to get some

attacking ball to the backline with plenty of space front of them. It is

the basics that just fall apart. There they are.

That is still not steady. The only from those survivor from the start

of the game is Rob Herring. -- front row. I can see Stephenson warming

up. He might give Henderson some respite, although it might be Johann

Muller. We will have to wait and see. Seven points for Ulster in the

second half. The Dragons playing more willingly in the second half.

Here we go, again. Here come the Dragons. Jones, the replacement back

row forward. Little gap, there. That was pinched by Ulster in the tackle.

Well played by Stuart McCloskey. But he threw that away rather

carelessly. The referee playing the advantage for the Dragons. Well, the

game has really broken up. It is getting messy. You will find that

the substitutions in the second half, the game loses purpose and

intensity. It was almost like basketball. They need to reset their

values for the last ten minutes. Right, let us play in the right part

of the pitch, let us minimise any mistakes. Let us be accurate and try

to get some intensity back because in the second half, they're in tents

of the has dropped. And in fairness to the Dragons, they have stepped up

and have shown more intent in the second half. Ten minutes remaining.

Ulster leading 38-8. Ruan Pienaar telling Wayne Evans to

clear off. If they kick straight into touch, it will be the Dragons

line-out. So Ulster have gone for the scrum. Mike McComish, died on

the near side of the scrum. Lewis Stephenson is ready to come on. Ruan

Pienaar is going off. This will be interesting. Paul Marshall will go

to scrum half. Jared Payne is on the outside half. And Mike McComish goes

to the wing. This is an extraordinary Ulster line-up. The

plot thickens. Mike McComish is more old fallback play. Very bright. A

dozen years ago he played for Campbell College in the schools Cup

Final. Penalty against the Dragons. The Dragons prop, Duncan Bell. And

that is not bad. That has given Ulster a decent position. They just

need some intensity, some ball, some bigger. The expression of Jared

Payne, there. He is getting frustrated himself. Dropping his

shoulders. What we need is a platform, a couple of targets to hit

and get some front foot, fast ball. That was a good through. Iain

Henderson. Marshall. Robbie Diack. Marshall get it away nicely. Here is

Nile and -- Annett. Is nothing wrong with the past but

David McIlwaine couldn't hold onto it. -- nothing wrong with the pass.

When you make a couple of errors, it gets into your psyche, the ball

becomes bigger, your hands become smaller. There is no excuse for

that. A fumble by David McIlwaine, who very nearly got his first Ulster

try at the start of the second half. There is a Dragons player down

injured, I am sorry to have to report. The club Doctor Michael Webb

is on. Don't think it is too serious. They were ecstatic at

half-time and even water at the start of second half, but since

then... Ulster did a lot of try scoring in the first half, Ruan

Pienaar getting the first one and then a wonderful move, back inside

to Tommy Bowe, salivating at the prospect of reaching the opposition

line and what a dive to finish. And here is Cave again, back inside to

Bowe and the sidestep, a bit of pace and determination all over Tommy

Bowe's phase. Rory Scholes very nearly got his first Ulster try,

held up. But the ball was quickly released and they were queueing up

out wide. A quick mention for Rory Scholes, he has been very accomplish

this evening. When you look at the roll call ahead of him, Cave,

Michael Allen, Trimble, the pool is certainly full. A Dragons have lost

the services of Lewis Evans. Groves is currently back on.

And it is going to be a scrum to the Dragons. Certainly, Ulster have put

the memories of a pretty dismal performance last Sunday in Treviso

behind them. I think the crowd probably expected at 38-3 up, they

would kick on and make it a half-century, but it hasn't

happened. Jack Dixon is on for the Dragons.

Held onto longer in the tackle. -- held on too long in the tackle. Five

minutes remaining. Ulster would like to trouble the scoreboard a little

more. A scruffy kick and it is going to be

a Dragons line-out. Stuart McCluskey was the man with the cramp and it

was Lewis Robling who got it away for the Dragons.

The referee just having a word with the Ulster forward not to interfere

with the Dragons person who will take the ball in the air.

It will be a Ulster scrum. Is there one more try to send the crowd home

even happier? You would like to think so and when you have Jared

Payne at ten and you're too back rows at the wing, -- annual two back

rows, but certainly the intent is there.

Is no fault about the Ulster performance, but one or two people

are leaving, probably trying to get home earlier to watch the replay.

McComish tries to run over the opposition. It is all a bit flat.

Knocked forward and Ulster get the platoon. Maybe there is still time

-- get the put-in. Just moving from side to side without any cutting

threat on either channel. Mike McComish had hands on the ball and

went for the more physical option, instead of the sidestep, try to go

through his man. Patrick Leach has been very effective defensively for

the Dragons. The Dragons complaining that there

was an Ulster infringement but Lewis Linton saying it had been a Dragons

knock forward. Cory Hill with nothing more serious

than a wounded boot. Diack having a chuckle to sell. -- to sell. He has

done very well, he has good control. There has been a reasonable flow to

it, from the referee, which has been positive.

Is this the last set piece of this entertaining game? Penalty taken

quickly. No way through. Is a little bit laboured by all

stuff. -- by Ulster. There is time for one more scrum.

The first time this evening we have seen that trick attack well

perfected by Ulster. McCluskey has done well again, he is a big man,

nice to see someone coming through from the ravens aren't being given

an opportunity. He hasn't been found lacking, he has been purposeful with

ball in hand, he has shown awareness and defensively he has been solid.

He has done the basic things well, not try to be too flash and he looks

very much to the manner born. Jevon Groves has come back on the field.

We have now played 80 minutes. This will surely be the last set

piece of this game. Ulster had it done and dusted by

half-time and looked after the -- it's looked up after the fifth try,

scored by Sean Doyle in the opening minutes of the second half, that

they would run away with this. But they went off the boil. Ulster have

a break now, as we mentioned. Back here at Ravenhill in a fortnight's

time against the Scarlets. Here goes Iain Henderson. Strong run

by Henderson. Five metres away. The pass wasn't perfect at all, Dan roam

the knees of Robbie Diack. -- down round the knees. No sixth try, they

will have to be content with five, but has the first bonus point win

since round number eight. They were done and dusted by the interval,

tries by Pienaar, a couple by Tommy Bowe and a penalty try, all of them

converted by Paddy Jackson, who added the points to Sean Doyle's try

but back came the Dragons and got a try themselves. They should act

moves to stay in the top three. 38-8 the final score. -- at least stay.

STUDIO: This young man sums up why the -- what the Ulster fans are

feeling. A dominant performance, four tries in the first half, to buy

the returning Tommy Bowe and eased to the win with another try in the

second half. 38 -8. Bryn Cunningham and Andy Ward, the second half kind

of faded, didn't it, after an excellent first half? Always to be

expected. Yes, we hoped they would get 50 or 60 points, but they left

maybe four or five tries out there in the second half. They still

showed a lot of good enterprise, good touches and needed to be

clinical. But the bodies were tired, you could see that. A lot of guys

were out on their feet. The ball was thrown round at every opportunity, a

lot of substitutions and it got disjointed. But a good performance.

A good way to bounce back, Andy, after that's disappointing display

last week. For 40 minutes, it was a good way but I'm being critical, we

should really push on. We are coming to a time in the season where we

have very important games coming up and it is international season as

well, stop start, but all in all they will be happy with the night's

work but still a lot to be done. Let's here from now on the match,

Darren Cave. You have waited 127 games for one of these.

Congratulations. Thanks very much. I have been given the people in the

studio a hard time, so it is nice to get one. It was great pressure in

the first, nice result. Speaking at you and Tommy Bowe linking very

nicely. He is a class act, he would look good with anyone, so I'm just

happy to be playing with these boys. A week off, some positives to take

till the end of the season. These four games, we are looking for four

wins. We are hitting our straps, it leaves us nicely for a last run this

year. Let's just make it clear, I have nothing to do with the man of

the match, it is the pundits who picket. Darren Cave, why tonight did

he get that award? I am happy for him, he has been close on a number

of occasions. Unfortunately, there has always been somebody who has

played particularly well. I thought tonight he was exceptional in so

many areas of the game. I mentioned before, he creates so many off-load

opportunities, he cuts good lines. It is the basic things very well,

but most of all, he has a very good rugby brain. He knows when to pass,

when to hold on, he knows where the supporters. You will notice there,

outside of the foot, he knew it would come back on the angle. Little

things that you don't always pick up on, very intelligent. And he created

two tries in the first. I have known Darren from long time and the best

part is his game has developed so much and he is more of a ball

player, so I wonder whether 12 might be a good spot for him in the

future, but he really is creating a lot more and is creating super

angles. Tommy Bowe will run off a shoulder. Thank you Poko, the next

-- your company. The next would do we have here is the Six Nations.

After that epic battle against England, it is Italy up. Next four

Ulster, the rearranged game against the Scarlets -- next up. We will see

you then, but for now, it is goodbye from Ravenhill on a night when

Ulster really did pump it up. MUSIC: "Pump It Up" by Elvis

Costello and the Attractions Pienaar is going all the way! What a

try by Pienaar! Bowe gets away, a second try and

what a return to Ulster colours for Tommy Bowe.

Pienaar again. Tommy Bowe. He is going to get a second in as many

minutes. Can you believe it? Evan Davis examines

why London is pulling away