Pienaar enjoying the final ride

The scrumhalf, who last week was told he would not be able to renew his contract at the Kingspan Stadium after seven seasons at the outfit, is determined to leave a lasting impression in Belfast.

Pienaar admitted that it was a tough emotional week for him.

The 32-year-old received an emotional reception before Ulster's Pro12 opener.

Pienaar wanted to extend his seven-season stay at the Irish province.

"Emotionally, it's been a tough week for me and my family," Pienaar told pro12rugby.com.

"However, it was good to go out there and put in a performance and get the win.

"It was very special to get a reception like I have. I have been here for so long, I feel like part of the furniture, I love this province and it means so much to me.

"I felt very emotional, but it wasn't about me, all I was concentrating on was this game, the team and the next ten months. It's about putting in performances for the rest of the time that I wear this jersey.

"The last six seasons at this province has been very special and that's why I am so desperate to make this campaign the best yet.

"It would be massive to finish this season with silverware, it would be massive for me and for the team – and that's very much the aim.

"Hopefully, we can build on this performance and this result, keep improving and have something to show for our efforts at the end of the season."

Source: @PRO12rugby