Murphy criticises Ulster execution after 21-point comeback against Munster

Ulster recovered from a 21-point half-time deficit to draw 26-26 with Munster in Belfast on Saturday, October 10, but head coach Richie Murphy remained dissatisfied with their performance. BBC Sport reported that Murphy criticised the slow start and ball retention despite a comeback that kept the visitors scoreless after the interval.

Watch the highlights:

Munster had built a 26-5 lead through four first-half tries. According to The Irish News, Alex Kendellen opened the scoring before Jacob Stockdale replied for Ulster. Marnus van der Merwe restored Munster's advantage, and the visitors added tries through Dan Kelly and Kendellen again while Cormac Izuchukwu was in the sin bin.

Stockdale marked his 150th Ulster appearance with a second try to begin the recovery. David McCann then crossed after 68 minutes, bringing the hosts closer and setting up a tense finish. Ulster had been outscored by four tries to one before the break, but eventually matched Munster's try total.

The Irish News reported that Stuart McCloskey scored with three minutes remaining to reduce the gap to two points. Jack Murphy converted to level the match, completing a second half in which Ulster scored 21 unanswered points. The kick was his third successful conversion, matching JJ Hanrahan's total for Munster.

Richie Murphy told BBC Sport that Ulster were attempting too much with possession in midfield rather than consistently putting their opponents under pressure. He also identified problems with field position, turnovers and a scrum that had previously been performing well. Although pleased with the response after half-time, he said the second-half performance still contained inaccuracies.

There was even a final opportunity for Ulster to win, but Alex Nankivell cut out Robert Baloucoune's attempted pass to Matthew Devine. The draw followed a 33-33 result against Glasgow and an opening defeat by Edinburgh, leaving Ulster without a league victory this season. BBC Sport noted their winless United Rugby Championship run now stands at seven matches.

Munster coach Clayton McMillan was also disappointed. He told BBC Sport his side had discussed the need to maintain accuracy and pressure at half-time, but did not secure the same quality of possession after the break, allowing Ulster back into the contest.