Ferris hails ‘Cowboy’ tactics

Back in the Wild West, strangers always aroused suspicion.

There is greater tolerance to outsiders in the multi-cultural world, but especially in northern hemisphere rugby circles, where New Zealand gunslingers are now widespread.

That didn’t prevent news of Mark Anscombe’s appointment as Ulster’s head coach being greeted with near-derision. That had much to do with the treatment of his predecessor, Brian McLaughlin, particularly as the Ulster native continued to carry out his job after the announcement, and oversaw the province’s progress to a first Heineken Cup final in 13 years.