Ulster Rugby criticised for banning news reporters at pre-match press confrences

Ulster Rugby's ban on news reporters attending pre-match press conferences following the sacking of two rape-acquitted stars has been criticised as an "unacceptable attempt to control media coverage".

Tuesday's event, traditionally open to all media, was again understood to be confined to rugby writers as the club moves to limit questions about the fallout from the players' trial and subsequent dismissal.