Ulster hooker Tom Stewart says he is getting “into a bit of a groove” ahead of Saturday’s Challenge Cup trip to Cardiff.
Stewart made an impact off the bench as he touched down one of seven second-half tries as Ulster marked their return to action last week with a commanding 61–7 victory over Racing 92 in Belfast.
The 24-year-old has struggled with injuries in recent seasons but now feels he is getting back to his best form, helped by a run of games heading into a busy festive period that includes successive inter-provincial clashes with Leinster, Munster and Connacht.
“I had that surgery on my ankle there a while ago. I’m starting to feel my body out a wee bit more and things are starting to look up a bit, which is positive,” Stewart told BBC Sport NI.
“Getting a good run of games in a bit of time is nice too, getting the flow and feel for rugby. I feel like I’m starting to get into a bit of a groove of things.
“We’re getting a run of games there, which is quite nice. Finding a bit of form, coming into Europe and stuff like that is good. We’re looking forward to getting this week and then getting a run at the inter-pros.”
Cardiff may have lost their European opener 38-17 at Stade Francais, but they have won five of their opening six United Rugby Championship games.
“I suppose you look at them in the other competition in the league (URC), they’re doing really well. Especially at home, they’re turning that place into a bit of a fortress, it’s a hard place to go.
“They have a lot of good international players. It will be a challenge, but one we’re really looking forward to,” Stewart continued.
“Coming off the back of Europe and then coming home, they’ll obviously be looking for that big emotional drive.
“Getting back into their stadium will be massive for them. Cardiff Arms is a great place to play rugby and the crowd really get behind them. They’ll be looking to finish off this block with a good win.”
