Joe Marler’s attempt to emulate Vinny Jones’ notorious ‘nut-cracker’ grab at a teenaged Paul Gascoigne (Wimbledon v Newcastle, February 1988) exposes the England prop to the risk of a 12-week ban at the very least.

Winger Rob Lyttle has been rewarded for his try-scoring exploits when he earns a start for Ulster against Edinburgh at Murrayfield this evening.

ULSTER COACH Alan Solomons has hit out at plans to reduce the Celtic League programme ahead of this evening’s Irish derby clash with Munster at Ravenhill (7.30 kick-off).