Ulster Rugby opened their European Challenge Cup campaign with a 40-21 bonus-point victory over Zebre Parma. Recent academy graduate Henry Walker shone on his first competitive start, scoring two tries. Ulster took a 19-0 lead by half-time, with Jacob Stockdale also crossing.
Zebre clawed back in the second half, but Ulster finished strongly to keep the bonus point. Ulster's defense was called into action early after a Zebre line-out play was held up. Juarno Augusto also saw an effort held up before Walker scored his first senior try.
Nathan Doak's finish was ruled out for a knock-on, but Stockdale soon restored the lead. Walker dived over for his second try before half-time. Zebre reduced the deficit through Licata and Montemauri, but tries from David Mc Cann and Mike Lowry, plus a late score from Martin Moloney, secured the win.
With the Challenge Cup paused until December, Ulster face three consecutive away trips in the URC, starting with a South African double-header against the Bulls and Stormers.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing