Every one else is doing it, so why can't we? Recognising the need to strengthen their defence, Ulster have co-opted the former Welsh Rugby League Coach, Neil Kelly onto their management ticket as an assistant coach.

Head coach of the Welsh rugby league side until earlier this year, the 42-year-old from Wakefield will link up with the Ulster squad later this week and has signed up until the end of this season.

Kelly has spent the last three seasons with Widnes Vikings, and in 2002 was named Coach of the Year having taken the newly promoted side to the brink of the Super League play-offs.

"We have been on the look-out for someone of this quality," commented Mark McCall yesterday, "and with Neil's expertise since the start of the season and are delighted to have someone of his pedigree join us at Ulster Rugby".

Kelly's appointment makes Ulster the first Irish province to turn to rugby league for their coaching team. Prior to his move to Widnes he coached National League side the Dewsbury Rams for five years, winning Coach of the Year with them in 1998.

Meanwhile, in a novel approach to club sponsorship, Killian Slattery, the managing director of the new Garryowen sponsor (Corporate Cleaning Services, based in Limerick) has bought the gate at Garryowen's first All-Ireland home game against Galwegians on Sunday October next.

Thus members of Garryowen, former players and all rugby fans can attend the game without charge.

Slattery, a former outhalf and full back with Garryowen, will also invite squads from selected years in the 80s along to home AIB AllIreland League games in an effort to regenerate interest and activity from former club members.

"As a former player, I want to give something back to the game and this is a great way to start," commented Slattery.