Ulster back-row star Juarno Augustus has declared the team's ambition to secure a top-two finish in the United Rugby Championship, aiming for crucial home advantage in the playoffs as the season reaches its climax.
With four regular-season matches remaining, Richie Murphy's squad sits third in the standings but faces a daunting schedule. The run-in begins with Friday's high-stakes clash against Leinster in Belfast, followed by encounters with Munster, the Stormers, and league leaders Glasgow Warriors.
Augustus, who joined Ulster from Northampton last season, emphasized the squad's confidence following impressive European Challenge Cup victories over Ospreys and La Rochelle. Those wins have secured a home semi-final against Exeter Chiefs on May 2nd.
"We're focusing firstly on the URC now because we want to get a home quarter-final, a home semi-final. That's what teams are playing for now," the 28-year-old South African told BBC Sport NI. "If we win a few games we can get second or first in the table and that's what we're aiming for."
The number eight acknowledged the team's preference for expansive rugby but stressed the importance of adaptability, particularly after recent matches played in challenging conditions at the Affidea Stadium.
"We want to play expansive rugby, that's what we want to do, but unfortunately it's out of our control, so we have to adapt to the weather conditions and the teams we play over the next few weeks," Augustus explained. "If the weather is better we can show better what we have."
Personally, Augustus expressed relief at returning from an ankle injury that sidelined him since December, stating he's now focused on finishing the season strongly alongside his teammates.
The upcoming fixtures represent both a challenge and opportunity for Ulster, who could significantly improve their playoff positioning with positive results against their top-tier opponents.