Ebbw Vale are no walkover, warns Ulster skipper Ward

ULSTER captain Andy Ward is not taking things for granted as the former European Cup champions open their Celtic League campaign against struggling Ebbw Vale.

Coached by popular former Leinster mentor Mike Ruddock, the Welsh steelmen have struggled for years to move into the big time, but without much luck.

Before the season got underway, major financial problems forced them to offload several of their first-team regulars and their best player, Wales prop Iestyn Thomas, has moved to Llanelli. But, says Ward, that will make them even more eager to do well.