Grayson prepared for Ulster clash

Paul Grayson has assessed Northampton's make-or-break Heineken Cup clash against Ulster in Belfast and admitted: "It is going to be incredibly difficult."

Saints must avoid defeat at Ravenhill next Friday night to guarantee themselves a prized quarter-final place.

They are just one point away from reaching the last eight, edging tantalisingly close following their stirring 17-14 Franklin's Gardens victory over French champions Biarritz on Saturday.

But Ulster's European record on home soil - they have beaten French giants Toulouse and Stade Francais, among others, during previous Heineken Cup campaigns - suggests Northampton face a severe test.

Ulster are also in quarter-final contention following their 33-21 Arms Park success against Cardiff, which was secured by a try double from flanker Neil McMillen.

"Their home record is awesome," admitted former England fly-half Grayson.