Zac Ward Brace Powers Ulster Past La Rochelle Into Challenge Cup Semifinals Amid Stormy Belfast Clash

Zac Ward scores twice as Ulster dominates La Rochelle in Belfast. Read the full match report on Ulster's clinical path to the Challenge Cup semifinals.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 11, 2026, 4:04 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Rugby365

Ulster Dominate Early Exchanges Despite Stormy Conditions

Ulster delivered a clinical performance on Saturday to book their place in the final four of the Challenge Cup, overcoming both a formidable La Rochelle side and adverse weather conditions. The home side wasted no time establishing dominance, utilizing a well-rehearsed lineout in the opening minutes. Tom Stewart’s precise throw found Zac Ward, who sliced through the Rochelle defense to claim the first try of the afternoon. This early momentum set the tone for a physical encounter where Ulster’s clinical execution in the "red zone" proved to be the difference.

First-Half Surge Leaves La Rochelle Scrambling

The pressure from the Belfast-based outfit remained relentless throughout the first period. Scrumhalf Nathan Doak stabilized the scoreboard with an early penalty, followed shortly by a powerful close-range effort from prop Tom O’Toole. Although La Rochelle’s Diego Jurd managed to narrow the gap with a penalty, Ulster’s defensive structure held firm even when Ward was temporarily sent to the sin bin. Before the interval, Cormac Izuchukwu capitalized on a sustained period of pressure to cross the line in the 36th minute, helping Ulster to a commanding 24-10 lead at the break.

La Rochelle Fight Back In Second-Half Exchange

Stade Rochelais emerged from the tunnel with renewed intensity, seeking to exploit their heavy forward pack in the difficult conditions. Judicael Cancoriet, who had scored just before the halftime whistle, provided a spark for the visitors. Second-half tries from Tolu Latu and Joel Sclavi threatened to make the contest a narrow affair; however, Ulster’s ability to strike back immediately prevented the French side from gaining any significant psychological momentum. The clinical nature of Ulster's counter-attacking play ensured that every Rochelle score was met with a swift response.