Ulster's Ben Carson describes the upcoming match against Munster as feeling like a cup final. The game is crucial for both teams, with Ulster needing points to secure a playoff spot in the United Rugby Championship.
Key points
Ben Carson calls the match against Munster a cup final.
Ulster dropped to fifth in the URC standings after losing to Leinster.
Ulster needs points to secure a playoff spot in the URC.
Mentioned in this story
Ben CarsonRichie Murphy
UlsterMunsterUnited Rugby ChampionshipEuropean Challenge Cup
Ulster's Ben Carson says Saturday's United Rugby Championship [URC] match with Munster at Thomond Park [17:30 BST] "is almost going to feel like a final".
The 24-year-old centre will start in Limerick after not featuring in last weekend's defeat by Leinster, a result which dropped Ulster drop to fifth in the URC standings, a point above Munster in sixth.
With a lengthy injury list for this weekend's trip to Limerick, there is added pressure on Richie Murphy's side to return with points against a Munster side whose eggs are now exclusively in the domestic basket as their European hopes are over for another year.
After next week's European Challenge Cup semi-final against Exeter Chiefs, Ulster round off their regular season URC schedule with home games against the Stormers and Glasgow with a top-eight finish securing a play-off spot, but should they break into the top four, it will seal a home quarter-final.
Just four points separate fourth-place Lions and ninth-place Connacht, so there is no margin for error and Carson insists all eyes are on this week and not what is to follow.
"It's the business end of the season and there is a lot of pressure on these games but these are the games you live for as a professional rugby player," Carson told BBC Sport NI.
"This game is almost going to feel like a final.
"Every point matters and going into a big game next week, there is a lot of pressure, but hopefully we will thrive on it.
"It's an interpro and they are intense, physical and everyone has a point to prove. All eyes are on this weekend, not next week. We're just thinking about Saturday night in Thomond."
'We want to do the coaching staff proud'
While injury will limit Ulster's options this week with a host of regulars set to miss out, it gives others an opportunity to shine.
Carson has endured his own frustrations on that front, but is ready to play his part this week if selected and is confident others on the fringes are keen to grab their opportunity.
"It's rugby and it happens. It's a physical sport and there are lads waiting on their opportunity, so we will hopefully take it with two hands and win this weekend," he added.
"I'd been out of training for a few weeks, struggling with a few niggles, but I'm back now and looking forward to the weekend.
"If you can prove you can play well in these big games then the coaches will be happy with you. He [Murphy] is happy to give the younger players a chance, and we just want to do him proud and perform really well."
Q&A
Why does Ben Carson say the match against Munster feels like a cup final?
Ben Carson believes the match is critical for Ulster's playoff hopes, making it feel as significant as a final.
What is at stake for Ulster in the match against Munster?
Ulster needs to secure points to maintain their position in the top eight of the United Rugby Championship for playoff qualification.
What are the current standings of Ulster and Munster in the URC?
Ulster is currently fifth in the URC standings, while Munster is in sixth place, just one point behind.
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