Preview: Ulster vs Cardiff Blues

Friday (19:35), BBC NI

Ulster host Cardiff tonight on the back of their disappointing defeat to Edinburgh last weekend, looking to quickly make amends and climb up the table. The Irish province have endured a poor start to the season by their lofty standards, with only two wins to their name. Away losses to Scarlets and Edinburgh means they already are playing catch up at this early stage of the season.

Tonight’s opponents Cardiff find themselves in an even worse position in the league. An opening day victory has been followed up by three successive losses at the hands of Irish teams, tight defeats to Leinster, Munster and Connacht away from home. This week sees their fourth match in Ireland in succession, and they will be hoping tonights result will be different to those over the last few weeks. In team news, the Welsh side welcome new signing Cam Dolan into the team, forming a strong back row which also includes Josh Navidi and Josh turnball. The only other changes to last weeks side are in the back line, with Aled Summerhill returning on the wing, and Adam Thomas making a start in the centre.

Ulster coach Neil Doak has been boosted by the return of a host of Irish stars, with Paddy Jackson and Darren Cave returning to the Ulster bench which is sure to add impetus if called upon. The backline is unchanged but for the return of Ian Humphreys at ten to replace youngster Peter Nelson. That means the strong centre partnership of Stuart McCloskey and Sam Arnold is retained. The pack also sees just one change, as Louis Stevenson replaces the injured Dan Tuohy. Ulster have won five of the last six against Cardiff, and they will be confident of continuing that run tonight at Ravenhill.

Last 3 meetings

27/3/15 Ulster Rugby 36 - 17 Cardiff Blues

19/9/14 Cardiff Blues 9 - 26 Ulster Rugby

29/3/14 Cardiff Blues 28 - 23 Ulster Rugby

Prediction: Ulster by 7-10.