Ulster v Munster: Michael Lowry ‘so focused that Christmas is a second priority’

Lowry says that Ulster’s first-half performance against Bordeaux was “the best 40 minutes” the side have played all season.

Richie Murphy’s side led by five points at half-time but their French opponents, who are second in the Top 14 behind all-conquering Toulouse, roared back in the final quarter to seal a convincing win.

“Unfortunately the second half wasn’t as good and that’s what we need to put out there, a full 80-minute performance,” added Lowry, 26.

“We’re going in the right direction. It’s good when you look back on things and see we’re so close to having that 80 minute performance if we just tidy up a few things.

Lowry added there is still “a real buzz” around Ulster’s Ravenhill home and having a game so soon provides Ulster with an opportunity to respond.

“We review the game, both good and bad. We will work on those bad things, but it’s about having belief. We want to keep improving the good things as well. Yes it’s good, but it’s not perfect,” he said.

“We’re striving for that. We’re trying to get better individually and hopefully collectively it will come.”