Ulster centre Nick Timoney said the squad will leave no stone unturned ahead of the Challenge Cup final in Bilbao on 22 May. Facing French side Montpellier, the province hopes to end a 20‑year trophy drought. A loss to Glasgow Warriors in the URC finale knocked them out of play‑offs and Champions Cup qualification, sharpening their focus on Europe’s second tier.

Timoney, likely to captain with Iain Henderson suspended and Stuart McCloskey injured, stressed the ‘real fight and spirit’ shown all season. He admitted the defence that held Glasgow was better but still needs ‘a level or two’ higher against Montpellier. Ulster’s recent home defeats – a late loss to Glasgow and a 38‑38 draw with the Stormers – have left fans scrambling for travel. He praised the back‑row.

With the final representing the province’s first silverware since 2004, Timoney urged the squad to play with the intensity that made them exciting to watch. He warned that conceding points will cost them, but believes the team’s resilience can translate into a decisive performance. Ultimately, victory would secure European qualification and restore belief among supporters.