Despite the prospect of being caught by Connacht, Matt Williams will continue to assess his options ahead of next season when Ulster meet Cardiff tomorrow evening.
Ulster may have an eight point cushion over the western province at the foot of the Celtic League standings but could still be overhauled by Michael Bradley's side as the campaign nears a conclusion.
Nevertheless, Williams has made no fewer than six changes to his starting line-up for the trip to the Arms Park (5.30pm).
Mark McCrea, who put pen to paper on professional terms as recently as January, makes his first start at full-back with Ireland international Paddy Wallace dropping out of the squad entirely.
Paul Marshall forms a youthful half-back pairing alongside Niall O'Connor with Rob Dewey joining Andrew Trimble in the midfield.
In the pack, Nigel Brady replaces the injured Rory Best with Kieron Dawson taking over the captaincy duties.
Ulster: M McCrea; T Bowe, A Trimble, R Dewey, M Bartholomeusz; N O'Connor, P Marshall; J Fitzpatrick, N Brady, T Court, C Del Fava, R Caldwell, M McCullough, K Dawson, R Wilson. Replacements: S Philpott, B Young, J Harrison, N Best, I Boss, P Steinmetz, D Cave
