Danny Wilson believes his Cardiff Blues team are rolling into form at exactly the right time as they chase two trophies.
The Blues coach – who is leaving to join Wasps at the end of the season – paid tribute to his players after what he called a “dominant” performance in beating Ulster 35-17 at the Arms Park on Saturday.
The victory was the Blues’ fifth in succession and leaves them just five points off third-place in Conference A of the Guinness Pro14.
It means they still have realistic hopes of making the European Champions Cup qualification for next season, as well as reaching the Pro14 play-offs.
In addition, they also have a European Challenge Cup quarter-final away to Edinburgh next weekend.
It represents an opportunity to turn the tide for the Blues who have become synonymous with under-achieving failure in recent years.
“Any Ulster team will hurt you if you’re not at your best, and I thought we were at our best today, or at least very close to it,” said Wilson.
“To get a bonus point win here against Ulster, and our fifth win on the bounce, is quite an achievement.
“It sets us up nicely for the end of the season but we’ve also got our feet on the ground fully aware of what we’re facing over the next few weeks. We’re keen to go and do well in the two competitions we’re still in.
“The boys will tell you, every time you play Ulster it’s a very physical affair. Our intention is to be back here for a home semi-final, and if we can get to that point, we’ll really give ourselves an opportunity.
“It was important that we thanked the supporters, and this crowd has been fantastic during my three years here. They’re extremely knowledgeable, extremely passionate, and they really get behind the teams and create an atmosphere.
“I have really fond memories of it and hopefully there’s more to come.”
Tries from Jarrod Evans and Blaine Scully, both converted by fly-half Evans, helped push the hosts into a 17-6 lead at the interval, with John Cooney replying with two penalties for the visitors.
Cooney started the second half with two further penalties before the Blues recorded their third try of the game through Kristian Dacey. Evans’ brace of penalties plumped their cushion further to 28-12.
Ulster’s first try of the game was scored with only a minute to play and the Blues went in search of the bonus point with the time in red.
They secured the final restart and man-of-the-match Evans put Dillon Lewis in for what could prove to be a crucial additional point.
The result means that the Blues keep the pressure on the Cheetahs above them in Conference A.