McLaughlin relishing European challenge

Ulster head coach Brian McLaughlin has said his team are savouring the challenges of this year’s Heineken Cup as they prepare to travel to Thomond Park for an all-Irish quarter-final.

Having been pitted against European heavy weights Leicester and Clerment Auvergne in the Pool stages, Ulster certainly haven’t had the easiest route to the knockout stages but McLauhglin believes his side have proven they’re a match for any team in the tournament.

"We don't fear anybody. We are a quality side and we're moving up the ladder in Europe," he said.

"Having witnessed the atmosphere in Clermont and now going to Thomond, it is something we're going to relish and look forward to."

An outstanding team performance saw Ulster come up just four points short of toppling Clerment at the Marcel Michelin.

Results elsewhere condemned Ulster to bottom seeding going into the knockout stages while a bonus point win for Tony McGahan’s Munster against the Saints saw them claim top seeding, setting up a compelling quarter-final.

After his side’s 41-7 humiliation of the Tigers at Ravenhill in Round 5, McLaughlin knows the difference home advantage can make in big games and will be expecting an intense atmosphere in Thomond Park.

"Home advantage in Europe is vital. At Ravenhill last week against Leicester the fans were outstanding," McLaughlin said.

"They create such an atmosphere that it is a very difficult place for opposing teams to come to play and that is why home advantage is crucial.”

With Connacht registering their first ever Heineken Cup win and the other three provinces advancing to the last eight of the tournament over the weekend, McLaughlin was eager to praise the current state of Irish rugby.

"It is fantastic to have three Irish sides in the quarter-finals while Connacht were outstanding in beating Harlequins on Friday night. These are very exciting times and it is perfect for the lead-up to the Six Nations."