Best And Trimble Included By Ulster

Ulster coach Brian McLaughlin has named a 27-man panel for Friday’s Magners League encounter with Edinburgh at Ravenhill (kick-off 8.05pm).

With two wins from two in the Magners League to date, Ulster will be looking to consolidate their good start to the season.

But following last weekend’s winning performance against Aironi Rugby, the coaching staff were adamant that there is plenty to work on.

Regular captain Rory Best, who was injured in the opening match against the Ospreys and rested for last weekend’s trip to Aironi, is included in the panel to play Edinburgh.

South African prop BJ Botha, who returned to Belfast last week following the conclusion of the Tri Nations, also boosts Ulster’s front row options.

Meanwhile, Andrew Trimble could be set to make an earlier then expected return to rugby following finger surgery this past summer. He has been named amongst the backs, alongside the man who was brought into the squad as his short-term cover, USA international Paul Emerick.

Edinburgh defeated Ulster 16-13 on their last visit to Ravenhill, something Brian McLaughlin’s men will want to ensure there is no repeat of this Friday night.

ULSTER Squad (v Edinburgh) – Backs (12): Adam D’Arcy, Jamie Smith, David McIlwaine, Paul Emerick, Andrew Trimble, Jonny Shiels, Darren Cave, Ian Whitten, Ian Humphreys, Niall O’Connor, Ian Porter, Paul Marshall.

Forwards (15): Tom Court, Paddy McAllister, Bryan Young, BJ Botha, Rory Best, Nigel Brady, Andi Kyriacou, Johann Muller, Tim Barker, Ryan Caldwell, Stephen Ferris, Chris Henry, Willie Faloon, Robbie Diack, Pedrie Wannenburg.