Ulster may have beaten Harlequins, but both teams were beaten by the snow.
Despite the Saracens vs Clermont game being called off because of the wintery conditions, it was decided that Ulster’s Champions Cup game away to Harlequins would go ahead.
As the game drew nearer, it didn’t actually feel like the falling snow would be too problematic. A light drizzle of frozen suffering gave the Stoop a picturesque look prior to kick off.
Looking at the initial clips that came through, one would think a simple tweak of ‘Wrap Up for the Ulstermen’ would see the travelling fans through to the bitterly cold end.
It’s snowy at the Stoop ❄️ #SUFTUMLive #HARvULS pic.twitter.com/KHejwP275n
— Ulster Rugby (@UlsterRugby) December 10, 2017
If it had stayed like that, everything would have been grand. However, Jack Frost was squatting down above the ground ready to unload a series of icy sharts upon the rugby players below.
Fortunately, Ulster were wearing their away strip for the European tie. So, you could just about make out Jacob Stockdale’s first-half try and John Cooney’s penalty that gave Ulster a healthy 8-0 lead heading into the break.
Well, you could see it, if you squinted.
— The Loose Head (@TheLooseH) December 10, 2017
A Scott Sinkler try made for a dramatic second half, but more penalty kicks saw Ulster extend the lead with the game finishing 17-5 in their favour.
The highlight of the match, at least from a comedic standpoint, may have been Tim Visser’s Sliding Dutchman moment.
He saw the ball, he dove for the ball, he missed it and then just couldn’t apply the breaks.
The Flying Dutchman? More like the Sliding Dutchman!
Tim Visser proving that you don't need a sleigh to enjoy #UKSnow… 😂❄️ pic.twitter.com/LZw7U9S9d7
— Rugby on TNT Sports (@rugbyontnt) December 10, 2017
That moment was reminiscent of that unforgettable never-ending slide tackle by Sol Campbell, which doesn’t seem to ever get old.
