Henry braced for bruising test

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“That will be no different from any other time we visit Newport,” said Henry, who still bears the scars from last week’s set-to with Leicester Tigers. Having had four stitches above the eye and other facial scars during an intense battle at Welford Road, Henry said it was just the job for what to expect against the Dragons.

“It was a real wake-up call for us against the Tigers. It was not about the result but how we shaped up against in a big physical challenge. I felt it was a long summer and a long pre-season, and now I just can’t wait to get into some competitive rugby.”

Henry believes Ulster can replicate last season’s phenomenal start when they won their first 13 games.

“Why not? That was obviously a great start, and it became a habit, we felt confident no matter who we were facing. With the standard of players at our disposal there is no reason why we cannot replicate the same start. But first things first; we must just bring our full game to Newport.”

Ulster coach Mark Anscombe gives returning three-quarters Chris Farrell and David McIlwaine another start while international quartet Darren Cave, Lewis Stevenson, Declan Fitzpatrick and Tom Court will be a big assets off the bench.

ULSTER: J Payne: A Trimble, L Marshall, C Farrell, D McIlwaine: P Jackson, P Marshall; C Black, R Herring, R Lutton, J Muller, capt, D Tuohy, R Diack, C Henry, R Wilson. Replacements: N Annett, T Court, D Fitzpatrick, L Stevenson, S Doyle, I Porter, J McKinney, D Cave.