McLaughlin looking forward to new season

New head coach Brian McLaughlin is relishing the start to his job with the announcement Ulster's pre-season fixtures.

"The effort from the management and the players has been very impressive," he said.

"We have all made a great positive start together, and are all gelling well, including our new players.

"I know we can move this on further, for the good of Ulster Rugby. I believe we’re all of one mind, and are all trying to go in the one direction.

"It is very important to me, Neil Doak (backs coach) and Jeremy Davidson (forwards coach), for Ulster to be successful. We’re Ulstermen through and through, and we want the best for our province, our supporters and our players.

"This matters to us, at a professional and at a personal level, so we'll be doing our utmost to ensure that when the team runs out, they will be playing at a consistency high standard."

Ulster's pre-season schedule:

Friday, August 21 (kick-off 7.30pm): Ulster v Newcastle Falcons, Ravenhill.

Wednesday, August 26 (kick-off 7.30pm): Ulster v Viadana, Ravenhill.

Friday, August 28 (kick-off TBC): Worcester Warriors v Ulster, Sixways Stadium.

Tickets for the home friendlies at Ravenhill will go on sale in early August.

Match ticket discounts are available to Ulster Rugby Season Ticket holders.