Ulster player ratings vs Exeter Chiefs | 2025/26 Challenge Cup

Ulster player ratings: Ulster marched into the Challenge Cup semi-finals in a commanding performance against Exeter Chiefs, coming away 29-12 winners at the Affidea Stadium on Saturday.

In a match many thought would be much closer, Ulster dominated almost every facet in the game, particularly in the second half where they kept the visitors scoreless until the final play of the half.

A terrific showing as they await to see who they will face in the final between Montpellier and the Dragons. Here’s how the players rated:

15 Mike Lowry – 7
A relatively understated evening, but still effective. Carried for 37 metres and beat two defenders, offering composure at the back. Didn’t dominate proceedings, but rarely put a foot wrong. Had an early try chalked off for something out of his control.

14 Zac Ward – 7
A tidy, workmanlike shift. Completed seven tackles and carried for 28 metres. Didn’t see much space out wide but showed good defensive application.

13 Jude Postlethwaite – 8
One of Ulster’s standout performers. Nine carries for 42 metres and four defenders beaten highlight his attacking threat, while 11 tackles and a turnover underline his defensive value. Constantly involved.

12 Stuart McCloskey – 8
Put in a complete attacking performance. His quick hands created Jack Murphy’s try, and he added 41 metres and four defenders beaten. Two turnovers were valuable, though four missed tackles take a slight edge off an otherwise strong display.

11 Jacob Stockdale – 4
A frustrating outing. Yellow carded for a high tackle and failed his HIA soon after. Had shown some early attacking promise, but his game was cut short.

10 Jack Murphy – 8
Took his try superbly, spotting the opportunity on the edge early in the second half. Solid defensively with eight tackles and generally composed in guiding Ulster around the park.

9 Nathan Doak – 7.5
Not perfect from the tee, but influential elsewhere. His kicking to the corner applied pressure, and he played a key role in David McCann’s try. Added 12 tackles and a turnover in a busy display.

1 Sam Crean – 6
Worked hard defensively with 10 tackles, but discipline cost him with two penalties conceded, including one at a crucial attacking moment before half time, though, in hindsight, it didn’t mean much .

2 Tom Stewart – 8
Energetic and effective throughout. Eight carries, 14 tackles and a turnover, topped off with a try from close range. A real presence in the tight.

3 Tom O’Toole – 7
Reliable in the set-piece and active in open play. Seven carries, nine tackles and three defenders beaten represent a strong all-round effort.

4 Iain Henderson – 8
Led from the front. His lineout steal deep in Ulster territory was a key defensive moment. Solid work rate around the park despite conceding a marginal penalty.

5 Cormac Izuchukwu – 6
A high-involvement performance, but too many errors. Led the carry count with 14 and made 12 tackles, plus two turnovers, but three penalties conceded — including a neck roll that ruled out a try — hurt Ulster.

6 David McCann – 8
A powerful presence. His try in the second half was all about strength and determination. Added 12 carries and 11 tackles in a tireless display.

7 Nick Timoney – 7.5
Defensively immense with 18 tackles, alongside a turnover and seven carries. A key figure in disrupting Exeter’s rhythm, often competing on the floor.

8 Juarno Augustus – 9
Man of the match. Carried relentlessly (14 for 50 metres), beat three defenders and scored the opening try. Could have had another try, but was held up.

Replacements
16 James McCormick – N/A
17 Eric O’Sullivan – 7
18 Tom McAllister – 7
19 Charlie Irvine – 6
20 Bryn Ward – 6
21 Conor McKee – N/A
22 Jake Flannery – 6
23 Ethan McIlroy – 7