Venue: TBC, Dublin Date: Saturday, 17 December Kick-off: 17:30 GMT |
Coverage: Live commentary on BBC Sounds & BBC Radio Ulster |
Ulster CEO Jonny Petrie has expressed his frustration after Saturday’s Heineken Champions Cup game between the Irish province and La Rochelle was moved from Belfast to Dublin.
Tournament organisers EPCR said on Friday that the match would be played behind closed doors at an as yet unconfirmed venue because it could not be played at the Kingspan Stadium.
“Standing in the middle of a firm but playable pitch at Kingspan Stadium,” said Petrie in a tweet on Saturday morning.
“Frustrated doesn’t even come close to covering how I feel right at this moment if I’m honest,” he added.
“Such a shame for all Ulster Rugby supporters, players and staff.”
The decision to switch the venue was made due to “concerns over the safety of the playing surface” after several days of icy conditions.
Kick-off time remains 17:30 GMT on Saturday.
A statement from Ulster on Friday stated: “Regrettably, because of issues with logistics, as well as concerns regarding health and safety due to the timing of the venue change, the match will be staged behind closed doors with no access for supporters.”
Champions Cup organisers said “the decision was taken to move the fixture as parts of the Kingspan playing surface were deemed unsafe due to the freezing conditions in Belfast”.
Dan McFarland’s men were hammered 39-0 away to Sale in their opening match and now effectively lose home advantage against Champions Cup holders, with no spectators permitted to attend the game.
Ronan O’Gara’s French side, who beat Northampton in their opener, flew into Belfast on Friday afternoon..