David McIlwaine has been making a big impression with Ulster
Ulster Academy player David McIlwaine says he is relishing rubbing shoulders with the Irish province's galaxy of international stars.
The 21-year-old was given a chance to impress in pre-season friendlies and has since played a part in several competitive matches, including the two Heineken Cup games.
"I enjoyed the Aironi game and after that I was hoping to be involved against Biarritz," said McIlwaine, who has turned out for Larne and Queen's during his short career.
"It was good to be in the team for that game and I thought we were on a par with them for the first half.
"They came out with a lot more intensity in the second half and really showed their class.
"With the score at 3-3 at half-time we thought the game was there for the taking but there was a very different atmosphere in the changing room at the end of the game.
"But we have trained well this week and are looking forward to getting back to winning ways against Edinburgh."
McIlwaine added that it was "brilliant" to be involved with the senior Ulster team since taking part in pre-season.
"The coaches have put their faith in me and hopefully I will continue to get chances to repay them.
"The older, senior boys in the squad are always looking out for you and constantly talking to you and keeping you right, and I just want to keep improving my game.
"Full-back is my favourite position but I'm happy to play on the wing if I'm asked to," added McIlwaine, who will start on the left wing against Edinburgh on Friday.
Australian Adam D'Arcy put the defeat by Biarritz down to "a bad 40 minutes".
"It was a big step up against Biarritz in terms of physicality and pace but we were well in the game at half-time.
"Obviously we were very disappointed at the final whistle but we have played some good rugby this s and are motivated to continue our successful start to the Magners League.
"Edinburgh went close to beating Northampton in the Heineken Cup so they will be tough opposition and Murrayfield is a difficult place to go," commented D'Arcy.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
Bookmark with:
What are these?