ULSTER produced a performance that was high on character and skill when they restricted a powerful Harlequins side to a modest winning margin at Ravenhill last night.

A sustained effort by the Ulster pack saw Harlequins considerably subdued in both tight and loose and with David Humphreys calling the shots at out half, Ulster moved with precision and penetration.

It was Humphreys, in tandem with scrum half Andrew Matchett, who helped to mastermind Ulster's strategy. In contrast, the more illustrious Will Carling had a quiet game, mixing the occasional flash of brilliance with some mediocre line and goal kicking.

Ulster maintained such a highs level of pressure through their back row that the Harlequins half backs were unable to stamp any real authority on the match.

Ulster led by 12-10 at halftime. Humphreys was on target with three penalties and a dropped goal and might have had an even greater ratio of success but for some ill luck.

An opportunist Cry from Mick Walsh converted by Carling, who also added a penalty, kept Harlequins in touch, but despite the commanding presence of the Llewellyn brothers in the second row, the visitors were unable to impose themselves out of touch.

Ulster, taking heart from the vociferous encouragement of the crowd of 7,000, pressed forward eagerly in the second half. However, the Harlequins cover tightened up and with Carling given more space in which to operate, Ulster were under severe pressure. Darren O'Leary swept in for the visitors' second try and when Carling added two further penalties the London club looked much more comfortable.

Yet Ulster could have snatched victory if Humphreys, who landed his fifth successful kick just beforehand, had been on target with a penalty four minutes from time. He miscued and the opportunity of a grand stand finish was lost.

. Francois Pienaar, who captained the Springboks' winning World Cup team in 1995, has sharply criticised coach Andre Markgraaff who dropped him from the South African squad to tour Argentina, Wales and France next month.

"First the coach said I play no further role in the future of South African rugby. Then it was said this meant only the immediate future. Then this was followed by statements that I had no role in the touring squad, that I was not available for the tour, that I had withdrawn myself.

"And then this was followed up by the coach telling a radio station what a fantastic person and what a gentleman I am - but he has never as much as phoned me," said Pienaar.