Best gets rewarded with Ulster contract

Neil Best has been rewarded with a full-time Ulster contract for the 2002-03 season.

Neil, who is fast becoming a favourite with the Ravenhill crowd, was awarded a development contract in March of this year.

The recent retirement of Robbie Brink from professional rugby, has enabled Best to move into the senior squad on a full time basis.

Coach Alan Solomons said: "Neil has had quite a bit of game time for us so far this season and every time he has come onto the pitch he has made an impact.

"With Rob's retirement, a vacancy had arisen within the squad and I had absolutely no hesitation in moving him up from a development contract to a senior contract. He's a young player of tremendous talent and ability and I personally feel he will go far."