Ulster give Spence the nod for vital Bath tie

NEVIN SPENCE will start his first Heineken Cup game for Ulster today after Brian McLaughlin’s decision to bring the 20-year-old in for the crunch clash with Bath.

The Ballynahinch flyer had a brief taster of European action for all of seven minutes last season when he came on as a replacement against Biarrtiz, but McLaughlin has named the tyro in midfield because of the recurring hamstring injury which may sideline Darren Cave until the New Year.

“Nevin has done well this season and while it may surprise a few people, I believe he is up to the job,” McLaughlin said.