Ulster take the fight to Clermont

Ulster 39 Clermont 32: Ulster has enjoyed some spectacular victories in Europe but, surely, none can have matched this lunchtime encounter for excitement, unpredictability and high-class rugby.

That the home side deservedly conjured a victory, and a priceless bonus point in scoring five tries, thrilled a capacity Kingspan crowd which was left in no doubt as to why Clermont currently dominate the French club game.

Clermont’s four-try haul meant a bonus point, as did a late surge which reduced the deficit to just seven points, so after maximum points from their two previous Pool 5 outings they remain in control of the group as the teams prepare for the return fixture in the French Alps on Sunday.