Ulster's McCullough confident ahead of Leinster match

Ulster forward Matt McCullough will be careful not to indulge over Christmas as he looks forward to playing Leinster on Saturday December 27 at Ravenhill.

"Obviously I am very excited about the Leinster game; the Christmas Inter Pro games have become a massive event and, have been, to the most part, successful for us as a team," he said.

"This is one of the fixtures that every player looks forward to each season, to play another province at Ravenhill in front of a packed out crowd; it is brilliant to be part of that."

McCullough is mindful of Ulster's improved form from the start of the season. Currently, they are located in fifth, one place behind Leinster, the reigning champions.

"People keep saying we have turned a corner, but I am wary of that expression. Early on in the season we were playing some good rugby but our mistakes were costing us the games. We seem to have cut out the mistakes in the last few games, but we are all well aware that we are going to have to play much better to beat Leinster and Munster.

"The Leinster game will be another test, a big challenge which we all want to rise to and we are all going to have to find huge performances to beat this Leinster side".

Meanwhile Ulster coach Matt Williams is clearly annoyed at rumours suggesting he may return to Australia at the end of this season.

"There is no substance to them at all," he emphasised. "I was astounded to hear those rumours. I have a great contract, and enjoying my coaching to such an extent that I can say that I'm having the best time ever.

"I have a wonderfully talented young team and we are on the way up. Why would I want to move on? I don't know why some of these rumours circulate, but I'm certainly here until my contract is up at the end of next season."