Ulster search for an opening United Rugby Championship win continues after a five try defeat against the Stormers in Cape Town.
Ulster fell to a 33-7 defeat against the Stormers in a United Rugby Championship fixture held in Cape Town, extending their winless start to the domestic season. Richie Murphy's side has now played five domestic fixtures, producing three defeats and two draws.
The visiting team traveled to South Africa without their Ireland contingent, who reported back ahead of November Nations Championship fixtures, leaving significant gaps in the squad. Despite battling through the heat, Ulster could not overcome a dominant second half display from the hosts, according to information published by BBC.
David McCann opened the scoring for Ulster with an early try, but quickfire scores before the break shifted momentum. The result marks a fourth win from five league fixtures for the Stormers, leaving Ulster to ponder their performance before facing Cardiff on 5 December.
Stormers strike either side of the half in Cape Town
In an error strewn opening half, handling mistakes halted the Stormers momentum before David McCann capitalized on a knock on to score the opening try. Matthew Devine saw an effort ruled out by the TMO, but play returned for an offside, allowing McCann to bundle over with Murphy converting.
Discipline proved costly for the visitors as they conceded four straight penalties, resulting in Keynan Knox receiving a yellow card. JD Schickerling powered over for the hosts, and Ahmed added the extras before Paul de Villiers charged down a clearance kick to make it 12-7 at halftime.
Evan Roos and Ruhan Nel seal bonus point victory
Early in the second period, a blind pass by Matthew Devine was intercepted by Evan Roos, who accelerated away for a converted try. The score left Richie Murphy's side facing a steep mountain to climb in the challenging Cape Town heat conditions.
The hosts eventually secured the bonus point when Ahmed delivered a crossfield kick to team captain Ruhan Nel, who touched down. Cormac Izuchukwu was later held up over the line before Ahmed crossed for a fifth try to seal the win.
Ulster search for first win moves to Cardiff
Following the defeat, Ulster remains winless in the United Rugby Championship after five matches, recording two draws and three losses. The team must now regroup during the break in their tournament schedule.
Richie Murphy's squad will return to domestic action on 5 December when they travel to face Cardiff, hoping to secure their first league victory of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score between the Stormers and Ulster?
The Stormers defeated Ulster with a final score of 33-7 in their United Rugby Championship match in Cape Town.
Why was Ulster missing key players in South Africa?
Ulster traveled for their South Africa tour without their Ireland contingent, who had reported back early for November Nations Championship fixtures.
When is Ulster's next United Rugby Championship match?
Ulster will play their next United Rugby Championship match away against Cardiff on 5 December.
Who scored tries for the Stormers against Ulster?
The Stormers tries were scored by JD Schickerling, Paul de Villiers, Evan Roos, Ruhan Nel, and Ahmed.
