Six-try Ulster secure bonus-point win over Zebre

October 17, 2026

Ulster Rugby stormed to a commanding 40-21 victory over Zebre Parma in their European Challenge Cup opener, securing a bonus-point win with six tries in a high-scoring first match of the season. The province’s front-row standout, Henry Walker, made an immediate impact on his senior debut, crossing twice to set the tone, while Jacob Stockdale, David McCann, Mike Lowry, and Martin Moloney added further tries to extend Ulster’s lead.

Zebre, despite a spirited second-half fightback, could only manage two tries through Giovanni Licata and Alessandro Ortombina, with Giacomo da Re converting one of their scores. The hosts’ late surge included a try from full-back Giovanni Montemauri, but Ulster’s relentless attacking play—culminating in a late try from Moloney—ensured they held onto their bonus points in a tightly contested encounter.

Coach Richie Murphy’s side dominated possession and defense, with key contributions from scrum-half Nathan Doak and full-backs Jack Murphy and Benson, who added conversions to Ulster’s try tally.