Ulster looking to restore Irish pride
EUROPEAN CUP SPOTLIGHT: Following their ignominious exit from the World Cup, Ireland's provinces will look to restore some pride and credibility this weekend.
New Zealand dispatched Ireland 46-14 in the quarterfinal in Tokyo last month, ending a miserable international season for the national team.
However, Leinster, Ulster, Munster and Connacht will be chasing European silverware when the Champions Cup get underway this weekend.
Ulster's Irish lock Iain Henderson said there is a "buzz" around the province.
The 1999 winners have been handed a tricky Pool Three - with their opponents being Challenge Cup winners ASM Clermont Auvergne, Harlequins and Bath, whom they take on in Round One at the Recreation Ground on Saturday.
"No matter what group you're in, you're always in a tough group in the Champions Cup," said the 27-year-old lock.
"So, I think that's probably what adds to the excitement around it and if your team is to do well, they have to be performing at the top of their game, whoever you are.
"That's probably the biggest buzz around it.
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"Playing against teams that you don't get to play against in your own domestic competition is massive.
"I think for a lot of the players, they wouldn't get the chance to play against a lot of the other players and for them to do that, it's an opportunity to showcase themselves on one of the biggest stages in rugby."
Henderson also pointed out that the Champions Cup has a special meaning for rugby fans, as they are keen on seeing their team play in Europe's elite club competition.
"The fans love it, because it's very special for them to get to see us performing against teams that they only get to watch playing against different teams," Henderson said.
"So, I think that just adds to the general excitement and the fans at the Kingspan Stadium love seeing different teams coming over."
Source: @ChampionsCup
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