Neil Doak looking forward to Clermont challenge

“We are going into a very noisy stadium, a real cauldron, and we have to be ready for the welcome we’ll undoubtedly get, but we are looking forward to the return game, and go to France determined to get the win we need to keep our quarter-final hopes alive.”

Ulster head coach Neil Doak was yesterday emphasising just how much attitude, being ready for the very particular challenges of the trip to Clermont Auvergne, is key to Sunday’s Champions Cup tie at the Stade Marcel Michelin.

“Last Saturday was a treat for the fans, two fine teams being clinical, playing at pace and with a physicality and intensity which was at a different level to our normal schedule.