Leinster v Ulster: “Ulster is a really good place to be” – Stockdale

Jacob Stockdale said “there’s a good spirit and atmosphere” in the Ulster squad ahead of the county derby against Leinster on Friday (19:45 GMT).

Ulster travel to the Aviva Stadium aiming to be the victors of the first inter-provincial derby of the season before matches against Connacht and Munster to complete the festive round against their Irish rivals.

Stockdale, who has made 138 appearances for Ulster, has continued his impressive form since last season and believes the mood within the squad is a major strength.

“Ulster is a really good place to be at the moment, the rugby is really fun and there’s a good spirit and atmosphere between the team and the coaching staff,” the winger told BBC Sport’s Nicola McCarthy.

“I’m really enjoying the rugby here at the moment.

“These are the games you get excited about [against Irish sides] When the fixture list comes up and you turn it around as much, things are going to be tough!”

Defending United Rugby League champion [URC] The defending champions had a mixed start to the new season, losing three times in their first six league matches.

However, they are now unbeaten in their last four matches after defeating Zebre and Dragons in URC with two victories in the Champions Cup.

Despite their difficult start, Stockdale added that the Leinster side is “full of quality” as Ulster attempt to win away to Leo Cullen’s side for only the third time in 12 years.

“Leinster away at the Aviva is always a really good challenge and a fun game to be a part of,” Stockdale continued.

“They haven’t had a good start to the season, but it’s difficult to go to South Africa and beat those players there.

“It’s not about playing poorly, it’s about the teams you play against who play very well, and apart from that, it’s a team full of experience and quality.”

As for the Ulster team, it ranks fourth in the league with 21 points after five matches.

However, they arrived in Dublin looking to bounce back from defeat after Cardiff staged a dramatic comeback to beat them in the Challenge Cup.

“We’re sitting in a really good position in the league at the moment and for us we want to improve that position.

“This positive morale comes from winning. It seems easier when you put in good performances and come away with wins.

“In fairness to Richie [Murphy] “And the coaches, they did a great job of promoting that good feeling and encouraging us players to control what we can do on the field.”