Impressive Ulster into Challenge Cup semi-finals

Impressive Ulster into Challenge Cup semi-finalsImage source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Ulster scored three first-half tries to move into a strong lead in a wet and wild BelfastByAndy GrayBBC Sport NI Journalist at the Affidea StadiumPublished10 April 202646 CommentsUlster (24) 41Tries: Z Ward 2, O'Toole, Izuchukwu, B Ward, McCormick Cons: Doak 3, Flannery Pen: DoakLa Rochelle (10) 24Tries: Cancoriet, Latu, Sclavi Cons: Jurd 3 Pen: JurdUlster are one game away from a first European final since 2012 after a 41-24 win over La Rochelle in the Challenge Cup quarter-finals.In the driving rain, Zac Ward crossed for an early try before Nathan Doak, who would end the half with nine points, landed a penalty.Diego Jurd's penalty got Ronan O'Gara's under-strength side on the board, but Ulster hit straight back through Tom O'Toole.Cormac Izuchukwu's try put Richie Murphy's Ulster in a strong position, but Judicael Cancoriet's converted try at the end of the half reduced the hosts' lead at the break to 24-10.Ward crossed for his second try six minutes after the restart but Tolu Latu responded for the visitors, before Bryn Ward's score put more daylight between the sides.Replacement hooker James McCormick crossed with three minutes left, and Jake Flannery's conversion rounded out an impressive win, despite a late consolation score from Joel Sclavi.Ulster will face either Benetton or Exeter Chiefs in the last four as they look to win a first trophy since 2006, when they claimed a Celtic League.Fast start sets the toneAs the rain and wind battered the Affidea Stadium, Ulster made a superb start when Ward danced inside a number of La Rochelle players to cross for the opening try inside five minutes. Doak converted and the scrum-half, passed fit to start despite an ankle concern, then struck a well-taken penalty with Stuart McCloskey holding the ball in place with the strong breeze. Fly-half Jurd responded in the 23rd minute wit...