**Leinster may be enjoying plenty of plaudits for their so-far perfect Guinness PRO14 campaign, but among the biggest threats to a third consecutive title are Dan McFarland’s Ulster who remain firmly in the running to lift their first Championship trophy since 2005/06.** The Belfast-based side fell at the semi-final stage last time out following a second-place finish behind the eventual champions in Conference B, and while their results this season have left them in familiar surroundings, their performances at home and in Europe suggest they are well-equipped to go one further. While eight wins and four defeats sees them lie 20 points adrift of double-reigning champions Leinster in Conference A, the Irishmen are seven clear of 2018/19 beaten finalists Glasgow Warriors in third, and among the top four sides in the entire league.
