Izuchukwu shows exciting potential at blindside for Ulster

He’s 6ft 7ins tall, around 117kg in weight, and can move at high speed. He played in the backs until he left school and is an Ireland 7s international, with that background obvious in his comfort on the ball even in wide channels

In recent weeks, Izuchukwu has made progress under new head coach Richie Murphy, who is evidently excited about what the man they call ‘Izzy’ can do. Having been used as a ball-carrier in midfield off a six-man lineout in the opening minute, Izuchukwu’s second carry was wide on the left in his role within Ulster’s phase-play shape.

Advertisement In the instance below, Jacob Stockdale’s work under a box kick gives Izuchukwu a chance to show his fend and acceleration. And soon after, Izuchukwu nearly scored from 10 metres out as he swept into the shortside on a lineout play. Izuchuwku has worked hard on his lineout jumping and mauling skills over the last four years and he will continue to be an option in that regard but he didn’t claim any Ulster lineouts in this game, while he lifted just once. Often, he wasn’t even part of the lineout as he instead set up in midfield.

To have defensive breakdown ability in your skillset is important for every player but all the more so if you’re playing in the back row.

Izzy STANDOUT Ulster URC

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