Schifcofske and O'Donoghue join Ulster

Ulster coach Matt Williams has signed Queensland Reds pair Clinton Schifcofske and Ed O'Donoghue on two-year deals.

Back-three player Schifcofske, 32, holds the higher profile, coming from a stellar 10-year career in Rugby League and to represent Australia A in the Pacific Nations Cup.

"I'm really looking forward to this new and exciting chapter in my life and rugby career," Schifcofske said.

"I know the Ulster fans are very passionate and supportive of their team and I'm really looking forward to myself and the team giving them plenty to cheer about.

"I was also delighted to be coming over with my current team-mate here at the Reds, Ed O'Donoghue. Ed's become a good friend of mine and is a terrific young player with loads of potential."

In the long term, O'Donoghue could be the better signing as he is Irish-qualified. He has already spent three seasons in England with Northampton Saints and Worcester Warriors.

"I'm really happy to be turning out for Ulster and excited about the possibilities of the coming season," admitted O'Donoghue.