ULSTER have received a massive boost with the return of skipper Simon Best ahead of their Heineken Cup opener against French giants Toulouse at Ravenhill on Saturday.

Munster winger Anthony Horgan will join Ireland’s tour to New Zealand and Australia following John Kelly’s withdrawal through injury.

Munster U21 23 Leinster U21 17

Liverpool have been dealt a major blow by the news that Chris Kirkland will be out for a further two months.

Patience and self-belief were the virtues that accounted for Italy and will stand Ireland in good stead for the World Cup.