Ulster Rugby I XV 9 v Scarlets Rugby I XV 17 A superb game from start to finish

Difficult playing conditions and a lack of time with ball in hand made for a disappointing trip to Llanelli for Ulster this evening, as the Scarlets slugged their way to a deserved eight-point victory.

With the Ulster side depleted by both injuries and international call-ups, Jared Payne wore the captain’s armband at full-back, while Michael Allen and Chris Farrell earned the opportunity to impress at wing and centre respectively. Ruan Pienaar moved to out-half in Paddy Jackson’s absence, freeing up the scrum-half berth for Paul Marshall, while Rob Herring started at hooker, supported by Lewis Stevenson and Neil McComb in the engine room. Nick Williams made a welcome return from injury at Number Eight after missing out against Montpellier and Cardiff Blues.