Ulster Rugby have defended the ticket pricing structure for the showpiece St Patrick's Schools' Cup final between RBAI and Campbell College at the Kingspan.

Some 7,000 spectators are expected to descend on the home of Ulster Rugby for the clash.

Tickets for the game can cost up to £30 for an adult and £16 for a under 16s - plus booking fees.

A family of five can buy a ticket for £41 and a family of four a ticket for £35.

In comparison, for the GAA's MacRory Cup final and MacLarnon Cup final in Armagh on Thursday, tickets cost £4 for children and £8 for adults.

While the All-Ireland Club Hurling Final in Dublin in Croke Park featuring Cushendall, costs under 16s £4 and adults £20.

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Ulster and Ireland rugby legend Willie Anderson said - given Ravenhill's 18,000 capacity - money was needed to pay for stewarding and to ensure health and safety.

Speaking to the BBC, he said: "It will be a magnificent occasion and the best two sides will be out today and it will be a cracking game of rugby.

"There will be a lot of talented boys playing today for both schools and a few of the up-and-coming Irish boys on display."

Ulster Rugby, in a statement, said the money raised was used to help develop the game.

"Tickets for the 2016 Schools’ Cup Final are accessible from £6 for children and £14 for adults, while there is also a family offer available," the statement said.

"This pricing structure is similar to last year’s final and is in line with comparable rugby events hosted by other provincial branches.

"There are significant costs in hosting a game of this magnitude, which will have in the region of 7,000 spectators inside a newly refurbished stadium. The majority of these costs are for stewarding to ensure the safety of those attending.

"Revenue from the Schools’ Cup Final and other games held at Kingspan Stadium is continually re-invested to grow the game across the Province. This investment has led to an increase in participation in mini rugby, female rugby and disability rugby in recent years.

"Ulster Rugby continually reviews its pricing structure and all feedback is welcomed."