Ulster consolidated their place at the summit of the Magners League at Ravenhill with a five-try, 20-point victory over the Cardiff Blues.
This win, which moved Ulster five points clear of Llanelli Scarlets going into the European break, was based on a grinding, rather than inspirational, performance.
The hosts certainly began slowly as Cardiff took an early lead through Chris Czekaj in the seventh minute.
David Humphreys replied with a penalty, and after the visitors twice went close, Ulster took the lead when Paddy Wallace crossed for a try in the 26th minute.
The home pack then took over and drove Neil Best and, four minutes before the break, were aided by John Yapp's sinbinning.
Ulster consolidated their lead in the second half as Cardiff had two more men given 10-minute enforced breaks.
Andrew Trimble grabbed two tries and Bryn Cunningham one to cap the win, meaning Wayne Evans's injury-time try for Cardiff was a mere consolation.
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