Ulster winger Jacob Stockdale says Friday's Challenge Cup quarter-final against La Rochelle is a chance to "create a statement" for the Irish province. Richie Murphy's side advanced to the last eight with a 28-24 win over Ospreys at the Affidea Stadium. La Rochelle, winners of the Champions Cup in 2022 and 2023, defeated Newcastle Falcons to set up the Belfast clash.

Stockdale expressed excitement about facing the French giants, noting Ulster's strong record against big French teams at home. "There's an opportunity to put in a massive performance and hopefully create a bit of a statement for ourselves," he told BBC Sport NI. Despite Ulster's 1-3 record against La Rochelle in his career, Stockdale believes confidence from the Ospreys victory can carry over.

The home side trailed 17-14 before Stockdale and Nick Timoney scored in the second half to secure Ulster's quarter-final spot. "We felt like we weren't really anywhere near our best," Stockdale admitted, suggesting room for improvement against La Rochelle. The Irish province aims to build on their narrow victory and deliver their best performance of the season when the French champions visit Belfast.