Ulster Ravens got their British and Irish Cup campaign off to the perfect start with a convincing win over Bridgend Ravens at Deramore Park.
Two tries from Chris Cochrane and tries from Stuart Olding, Niall Annett, captain Neil McComb and substitute Michael Heaney saw the home side outscore the competition new-boys by six tries to one.
Out Half Niall O’Connor scored 17 points from the boot as he put in a solid 65 minutes before being replaced by Stuart McCloskey.
Roger Wilson made his long-awaited return from injury in the game, lasting 40 minutes and will be hopeful of being selected in the Ulster squad to face Glasgow in the Heineken Cup next weekend.
Ulster Ravens and Bridgend Ravens had been tied at 16 points each at half time. The visitors opened the try scoring through winger Glen Lewis, but Stuart Olding claimed Ulster’s first score of the game on 20 minutes after a powerful run from Chris Cochrane.
After the break however, Ulster Ravens were ruthless in their finishing and scored at will.
Niall Annett started the Ulster try-fest eight minutes into the half, before captain Neil McComb broke free of Bridgend tacklers to run in and score in the corner. A superb inside flicked pass from Niall O’Connor put Chris Cochrane in for his first on 64 minutes and he crossed for his second just eight minutes later.
Substitute scrumhalf Michael Heaney capped a fine 30 minutes with a great individual score right on full time.
Ulster Ravens play Bristol away in their next match in the competition on Sunday 21st October.
