Ulster coach Alan Solomons described his side's victory over French champions Biarritz as the greatest of his 18-month tenure. Ulster held on for a thrilling 13-9 victory, with wing James Topping scoring a crucial interception try in the first half. Biarritz had been unbeaten in the tournament going into the game but surrendered their record to an inspired Ulster side.
"France are the third-best country in world rugby and Biarritz are the French champions," said Solomons. "Ireland are the sixth-best side and Ulster only have one representative in the national side. When you look at it in those terms, you begin to appreciate the magnitude of our victory."
Solomons hailed the performance of his pack as the foundation of the victory, which keeps Ulster's pool six qualification hopes alive. "Our forwards were simply magnificent," he added. "If we had not made so many unforced errors then the victory would have come more easily. We will now prepare for what should be an almighty challenge next week in Biarritz."
Filed by Sinéad Kissane
