Ulster v Leinster: Hosts have ‘belief’ they can overcome visitors in ‘huge’ interpro

Ulster head coach Richie Murphy says he hopes his side can exploit some perceived weaknesses they sense in Leinster’s gameplan when the Irish provinces meet in Friday’s crucial United Rugby Championship encounter at the Affidea Stadium (19:45 BST).

Murphy’s side have a European Challenge Cup semi-final against Exeter to look forward to at the start of May, but for now their attention must return to more domestic matters as they lock horns with Leo Cullen’s side in Belfast.

Ulster sit third in the URC table, one point ahead of their interprovincial rivals, with four rounds of the regular season remaining.

Leinster ran out narrow winners, 24-20, when the teams met at the Aviva Stadium just before Christmas.

“It’s a massive test for us at the weekend but we’re also playing some really good rugby,” Murphy told BBC Sport NI’s Gavin Andrews.

“Within that Leinster system we see some weaknesses, things that we can go after, so it’s going to be on the back of whether we can execute.

“We created some opportunities against them down at the Aviva and that gives us belief that on our day we can do the job.”

The Ulster head coach also highlighted some of the many strengths Leinster possess, however, and reflected that he believes their play has improved in recent weeks.

“It’s a huge game, they’re a quality side. We went down to the Aviva and got very close, just pipped at the post, so it’s one the lads are up for and there’s also the battle for green jerseys that run alongside it, so a lot to play for this weekend.

“They definitely look better. Better with ball in hand, moving the ball a bit more like what they did in the past. Physical with direct ball-carriers as well, and a really tough defence to break down.

“We’re a point ahead of them in the league table, a big test, but one the lads are looking forward to.”