Former Ormskirk RUFC junior Andi Kyriacou signs for Ulster Rugby

Apr 30 2009 Ormskirk Advertiser

FORMER Ormskirk RUFC junior Andi Kyriacou has signed for Magners League outfit Ulster Rugby.

The Irish giants have secured the services of Kyriacou after the 26-year-old hooker was one of fifteen players culled by Guinness Premiership side Saracens.

Andi was informed in February his contract with the Watford-based outfit would not run its expected course, so he has opted to make a return to the Magners League following an impressive loan spell for Munster back in 2006/07.

But, after what has been a turbulent couple of months that Kyriacou admitted were two of the worst in his playing career, the Irish qualified front-row has ended his association with Saracens.

He revealed: “It wasn't the best period I've ever had in rugby.

“Not knowing whether you were going to have a club for the next season is one of the most unnerving experiences a professional player can go through.

“All sorts of things flash through your mind but you just have to stay positive and keep believing that something for the best will happen.

“I had a massive support base during this with my family and fiancée always there offering support while the lads in the same boat at Saracens were also great.

“The fans were also fantastic and always asking if there was any news so as you can see the support base has been huge.

“I would also like to thank Nigel Wray for the opportunity he has given me over the past few years.”

But now with a massive weight lifted off his shoulders, an excited Kyriacou is completely focused on linking up with his new team-mates and enjoying another spell across the Irish Sea, this time at Ravenhill.

“Ulster have an exciting young squad that really want to pick up some silverware and I want to do everything I possibly can for the team to help them achieve this,” he said.

“I loved my short period in the Magners League with Munster. It is one of the most exciting leagues in the world. The rugby is fast and tough and there are no weak teams in there, which makes every fixture a massive test.

“Now it is just about trying to find a place to live in Belfast, but I really can't wait to get started over there and join up with the squad. Ulster have a great history and an exciting group of players and I'm really looking forward to putting in a big pre-season.”