Boss says Ulster gunning for Quins

ISAAC BOSS, now back to his best following a below-average start to the season, says that although Ulster will not make the knock-out stages of the European Cup, they will have a big say on who goes through from Pool D.

So, when London Harlequins hit town today (kick-off 1.35) they can expect few favours at Ravenhill.

“Some say we have nothing to play for, but we have,” claimed Boss, who will have a new number eight in front of him after coach Matt Williams surprisingly named Ballymena’s Chris Henry for his first Ulster start against unbeaten Quins.

In a line-up featuring four changes from the defeat by Edinburgh last week, Keiron Dawson returns to openside while lock Ryan Caldwell and Scotland wing Simon Danielli return after leg injuries.

Kiwi-born Boss added: “We are a team and a close-knit one. That is pulling us together and will see us having a big influence on who goes through.

“We are determined to claim another big scalp. Many English clubs came here fancying their chances, but returned home with their tails between their legs,” said Boss who says last week’s defeat in Edinburgh was just a minor blip.

“After coming off a brilliant win in Limerick , we just did not perform at Murrayfield. You get highs and some lows. We just did not harness the victory over Munster very well. But, rest assured, we are not at our peak yet, we have something to prove against Quins.

“We were hurting when they defeated us over in London . Considering it’s the last game at Ravenhill until March, it will be a massive chance to the supporters a real treat,” said Boss who would love the chance to play for Ireland again.

“Of course, I would love to play again. It’s one of the reason why I came here four years ago. I’m definitely enjoying myself. It’s hard on Cillian (Willis), who had taken over the number nine jersey from me and was in good form. But since he was injured I think I have started to find my form again.

“It’s been a bit of a roller-coaster for me. When you get in its brilliant, but if your not, it can be very frustrating.”

“Mind you, I still have a way to go. But there are definitely opportunities to prove that I’m up to international standard. That’s why this weekend it very important for a lot of boys. If I can edge back that will be fine. But really I have not thought too much about it.

“I worked hard to get back in the Ulster jersey, and I’ll try to improve my game from here. There will be a big squad announced next week, so hopefully I will be involved.

“In the meantime, playing well against Quins outfit will help as will the game next week against Stade Francais.”