Ulster Rugby faced off against the Scarlets on March 1, 2025, at Kingspan Stadium, hoping to regain momentum within the United Rugby Championship. The match was set to kick-off at 5:15 PM, with both teams vying for improvement after mixed beginnings to their seasons.
During the match, Ulster aimed to build on its home advantage, especially after struggling to find consistent form this season, winning only four out of eleven matches. Meanwhile, the Scarlets entered the game with slightly more success under their belts and were positioned within the playoff spots, making the contest even more thrilling.
From the onset of the match, the tension was palpable. The first half saw both teams exchanging blows, with penalties playing a significant role. According to Adam McKendry from the Irish Mirror, "Out of absolutely nothing whatsoever, the Scarlets retake the lead and this is a really unfortunate one for Ulster to concede." This line exemplified the back-and-forth nature of the game.
With just 30 seconds remaining, Ulster's Nick Timoney made what could have been the pivotal play of the match as he dived for the line. "Is this the winning of the game for Ulster?!" McKendry remarked as the intensity built. Despite the forwards piling toward the line, they found themselves unable to push through, prompting gasps from the crowd.
Both teams fought hard, with Ulster desperately seeking to secure the win. A pivotal moment came when the Scarlets turned the ball over following Ulster's failed maul attempt. Their defensive prowess was on full display as they capitalized on Ulster's mistake, signaling a shift in momentum to the Welsh side.
Scarlets' efforts were continually compounded by Ulster's penalties, with another not rolling away ruling putting them at risk. Ulster's Nathan Doak successfully kicked to the five-metre line, trying to position his team for scoring opportunities.
Just when it looked as if Ulster might seize the match, David McCann executed what some described as a game-winning intervention, stealing the ball as the Scarlets attempted to drive for the white line. The game was very much alive, and spectators were cheering wildly at the thrilling displays of skill.
Yet, as the match continued, the Scarlets maintained their composure. The back-and-forth action culminated with Vaea Fifita scoring for Scarlets, as he capitalized on broken-field opportunity following another turnover. The Scarlets scored to re-establish their advantageous position, much to the chagrin of Ulster fans.
This was evident as Richie Murphy, head coach of Ulster, referred to the match as "a must-win game for us – that's how we are approaching it." This statement encapsulated the seriousness with which the team regarded the match, emphasizing the need to build confidence as they aimed for higher placement within the league.
Post-match reflections captured the difficulties experienced by Ulster this season. Player James Hume expressed optimism for the future, stating, "I believe all clubs at some point go through a rough period and a rebuild... it’s only a matter of time before it all clicks and we’re back up there." His sentiments echoed throughout the locker room following the match.
The final score of 30-28 saw Ultras narrowly defeated by the Scarlets, leaving them to lament missed opportunities and contemplate the road ahead. The game demonstrated intense passion and determination on both sides, with fans treated to a truly gripping contest.
Looking forward, Ulster's supporters and players will need to regroup and re-energize as they prepare for their upcoming matches, hoping to translate potential energy and performances onto the field. The Scarlets, having displayed grit and resilience may serve as motivation for all teams as the rest of the season approaches the playoff heat.