Ulster's long wait is almost over
It has been a long wait since 30 January 1999. That was the day Ulster lifted the European Cup at the old Lansdowne Road. Since then they have never qualified for the knock-out stages of the competition.
This weekend, however, I expect Ulster to carve out that all-important win against Aironi which will take them into the quarter-finals.
It is certainly not a foregone conclusion, but Ulster have beaten Aironi twice this season and their form away from home has much improved - notably those wins on the road against Cardiff, Treviso and Bath before Christmas.
Will there be more scenes of celebration after Ulster play Aironi on Saturday?
A runners-up spot in the group is guaranteed with a four-point victory, a bonus point win may just secure a home draw in the last eight - depending on what form Bath turn up in for their match against Biarritz.
Last week's success at Ravenhill reminded me of those famous European triumphs almost 12 seasons ago which helped propel Ulster to the cup win.
Toulouse, the most successful team in the competition, were beaten twice and Stade Francais once.
I'm Stephen Watson and I'm a presenter with BBC Northern Ireland. I anchor our live rugby, football, and motorcycling coverage. I also love golf and boxing. 
