Victory over Ulster the ‘days we’ll remember’ says McCusker

Scarlets back rower Rob McCusker was delighted to be a part of the region’s 22-13 victory over Ulster last weekend and says the win will help the side as they head into back to back derbies over the festive period.

Sunday’s clash against Ulster at Parc y Scarlets was McCusker’s first taste of European rugby this season and was an important part of a strong scrum that ultimately won the region the game.

McCusker said; “It’s good to be back. It’s my first European game of the season which is a bit gutting but glad to be back and help the team in whatever way I can.”

The Scarlets headed into half time 12-0 the good but the region were all too aware of Ulster’s threat having fallen short to the Irish side in the opening round of the Guinness PRO12 season, McCusker went on to say: “We’ve come a long way since then. We’ve closed a few games out I think.”

With minutes left on the clock Scarlets were leading 15-13 before a James Davies interception try on the 79th minute put Scarlets into the safety zone, McCusker added: “We thought we could hang on but when it’s that close anything could happen – glad to put that extra bit of distance between us and what was a really good side. We’d done enough, barring a major meltdown we were good for the win.

“It’s good for us to still be in the hunt and we’re keen to make an impression. Nice to get to this part of the year and still have something to play for.”

“These are the kind of days we’ll remember particularly if we can do something.

Great for us, little spring in our step coming back into derbies.”

Scarlets will now travel to Leicester Tigers before welcoming reigning champions Toulon to Parc y Scarlets in the final pool stage in January. McCusker continued: “They’ll both be great occasions which we’ll enjoy and try and get something out of.

“There’s no let up, some boys have played a lot of minutes. It’s just key how we manage each other the next few weeks and get out the other side of Christmas with a healthy squad.”

The first of Scarlets’ three festive derbies kicks off at BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park this Friday evening before back-to-back rounds against neighbours Ospreys.