Juarno Augustus Eyes Home Advantage as Ulster Prepares for Tough URC Challenge
Ulster back row Juarno Augustus emphasizes the team's determination to finish strong in the United Rugby Championship (URC) as they aim for home advantage in the knockout stages. With only four regular season fixtures remaining, Richie Murphy's side currently sits third in the table and faces a challenging schedule ahead, starting with Leinster's visit to Belfast this Friday. Following their recent success in the European Challenge Cup, where they secured victories over Ospreys and La Rochelle, Ulster prepares for a semi-final clash against Exeter Chiefs on May 2. Augustus expresses that confidence is high within the squad, stating, "We are playing four of the best so all we need to do is take it week by week, recover well and then just go again when it's game day." The team is focused on securing a home quarter-final and semi-final, with Augustus adding, "If we win a few games, we can get second or first in the table and that's what we're aiming for." Despite facing challenging weather conditions during their recent matches at the Affidea Stadium, Augustus remains optimistic about adapting their game plan. He acknowledges the importance of playing expansive rugby but recognizes the need to adjust to varying conditions. "If the weather is better we can show better what we have," he notes. Having recently returned from an ankle injury sustained in December, Augustus is eager to finish the season strong, both personally and for the team. "Hopefully I can finish the season well and the team can finish it well also," he concludes.
Source: BBC Sport - 2026-04-16