Ulster Coach Hopes Henderson Injury Not Severe

Ulster's head coach Richie Murphy is optimistic about Iain Henderson's back injury, which led to his withdrawal from the starting line-up before their 47-13 win over Benetton in the United Rugby Championship. Murphy hopes the injury is not serious as they prepare for the European Challenge Cup opener against Racing 92.

Murphy explained that Henderson suffered a back spasm during warm-up despite training well throughout the week. Hooker Rob Herring was also withdrawn from the game as a precaution after rolling his ankle when he came on as a replacement.

Despite trailing 13-12 at halftime, Ulster bounced back to secure a convincing victory over Benetton, scoring seven tries. Murphy was satisfied with the team's performance in the first half but emphasized the need for more accuracy and clinical play in the second half.

Ulster's win marked their third home victory in the URC season, following previous successes against the Dragons and the Bulls. Murphy commended the team's confidence, skill work, and coaching staff, particularly highlighting the impact of assistant coaches Mark Sexton and Willie Faloon.

Murphy praised player-of-the-match Jude Postlethwaite and highlighted the impressive performance of second row Charlie Irvine, who stepped in early in the match as a replacement. Irvine, who was set to play for Queen's on Saturday, made a significant contribution in only his second cap for Ulster.