Ulster came out second best but there were fleeting positives, from Timoney’s blistering start to a superb individual finish from the returning Robert Baloucoune.
But there were also lingering ‘what ifs?’. What if Zac Ward’s missed tackle did not open up space for Montpellier’s opening try? Would things have changed if Harry Sheridan was able to keep hold of the ball as he fell towards the line, or if Tom Stewart did not overthrow on his line-out?
All small moments that played a role in the defeat.
However, in truth, given Montpellier’s clinical edge and domination in the pack, it probably would not have made much difference over the course of 80 minutes.
As the Ulster players sank to their knees at full-time, the pain etched across their faces, they had one of the most difficult tasks in sport as they watched Montpellier lift the silverware they had craved for so long.
“If you look at where Montpellier sit and the teams they have beaten over the past number of weeks, they are one of the best teams in Europe,” added Murphy.
“We’re disappointed but we will get back together to have a look at it before we break up.”
