Ulster booked their place in the Guinness PRO14 semi-finals after seeing off the challenge of rival Irish province Connacht in a hard-fought clash at Kingspan.

There were impressive performances across the park from Dan McFarland’s men as they triumphed 21-13 but none more so than that of South African powerhouse Marcell Coetzee.

In what was Ulster’s first knockout match in Belfast since 2014, Coetzee ensured they got off to an ideal start after playing a key role in their opening try in the 15th minute.

Following a Tiernan O’Halloran spill from a high ball, the home side countered quickly before Coetzee’s smart offload allowed Kieran Treadwell to supply Timoney for the try.

But despite dominating territory and possession, Ulster only had a one-point advantage going into the final 13 minutes of the game after a Jack Carty penalty closed the gap.

Coetzee once again rose to the occasion, though, with the flanker capping off a talismanic performance with a muscular finish in the 78th minute.

David Shanahan urged his pack into the Connacht 22 before Coetzee crashed through two tackles and stretched for the line to score the winning points.

The Guinness PRO14 Final is one of the most entertaining games in the rugby calendar and takes place in Glasgow’s Celtic Park on May 25. Tickets start at just £25 for adults, £1 for kids. Visit www.pro14rugby.org/finaltickets