Ulster lost in the Arms Park to allow Cardiff move ahead of them and into fifth position in the PRO12 league.

Cardiff 21 Ulster 14

In a poor match Ulster open the scoring but conceded two tries to the home side, who emerged worthy winners.

Ulster opened brightly and were finally rewarded for putting Cardiff under early pressure in the 12th minute with a successful penalty from Ruan Pienaar for 0-3.

But far too often the visitors were giving away possession and had conceded five penalties in the opening 18 minutes.

Ulster finally put some distance between the teams when an over throw at a Cardiff lineout bounced favourable for Ulster. Number 8 Robbie Diack reacted smartly, kicking through the Cardiff defence and following it up for the touch down and 0-8.

A Dan Parks’ kick gave Cardiff their first score with a penalty for 3-8 and while Ulster were frustrated

by their inability to hold onto the ball in contact and their concession of penalties Pienaar and Parks added one a piece with the sides going into the break.

Cardiff began the second period perfectly when a flashing break from fullback Ben Blair fell inches short. But outhalf, Parks was up to gather the loose ball and he touched down for 11-11, the conversion from a narrow angle going wide.

Cardiff left wing Tom James added to their score with another try and when Ian Humphries was sin binned Ulster looked desperate. Another Parks penalty put 10 points between the teams at 21-11.

While Pienaar landed another kick Ulster were chasing the match in the dying minutes and all to no avail.