Stockdale scores twice on 150th Ulster appearance in Munster draw

Jacob Stockdale scored twice on his 150th Ulster appearance as the province recovered from a 21-point half-time deficit to draw with Munster in Belfast. Speaking to BBC Sport NI after the milestone, the 30-year-old wing described an emotional occasion shared with his daughters, Phoebe and Bonnie, who accompanied him onto the pitch.

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The landmark appearance arrived a week later than expected. Stockdale had been due to reach 150 against Glasgow but withdrew during the warm-up. Instead, he reached the total at home against Irish opposition, having first emerged for Ulster in 2016. He told the BBC that walking out with his children had brought him close to tears and created a memory he would treasure beyond his playing career.

Stockdale contributed on either side of the interval against Munster. For his first try, he beat two defenders before scoring; his second finished a passing move during Ulster's recovery. The comeback nevertheless left Richie Murphy's team still looking for their first win after three United Rugby Championship matches. They had also drawn their previous game, finishing level at 33-33 with Glasgow.

Discussing that start, Stockdale said Ulster needed an honest assessment of their performances and an emphasis on improving their processes rather than concentrating only on results. Murphy had criticised the team's approach, saying they were treating matches like training sessions. The two draws have therefore come alongside questions within the camp about how to turn their performances into victories.

Ulster's recent European campaign also remains a source of disappointment. They reached last season's Challenge Cup final but lost to Montpellier in Bilbao, missing the chance to secure their first trophy in 20 years. Stockdale was absent from that final after fracturing his cheek in the semi-final win over Exeter Chiefs. He told BBC Sport NI the defeat still hurt, while pointing to the team's run as evidence of what they could achieve.

His two tries against Munster came with Ireland head coach Andy Farrell watching, although Stockdale said he had not realised Farrell was there. Injuries and a loss of form previously interrupted his international career, but he returned to contention and featured in Ireland's Nations Championship campaign. Asked about further selection, he stressed that his immediate attention remained on performing for Ulster rather than decisions outside his control.