And then there were three.

It’s been a rather difficult season for Ulster Rugby both on and off the pitch, despite high hopes at the beginning of it.

They’ve been without Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding all season as a result of their rape trial, they lost Ruan Pienaar in the summer and have been unable to call upon star signing Marcell Coetzee, who continues to struggle with injury.

Then director of rugby Les Kiss decided to part ways with the province, before Jono Gibbes revealed he will be doing the same this summer, after just one season with the club.

They’re also set to lose the services of star man Charles Piutau in the summer, leaving the northern province with not much to smile about.

But there has been some positives. Both Iain Henderson and Rory Best have signed new contracts, and there’s also been the emergence of Jacob Stockdale.

John Cooney has been a revelation, and they’ve got Jordi Murphy and Marty Moore heading their way next season. If they can get a good coach in place, and sort out their issues at outhalf – things might finally start to look up.

In terms of a coach, Brendan Fanning of The Irish Independent is reporting they’ve whittled their shortlist down to three men. Former Highlanders, Blues and current New Zealand women’s coach Glenn Moore is understood to be on that list and all of them are apparently from overseas.

Their bonus-point win over Edinburgh on Friday has also strengthened their chances of securing Champions Cup rugby next, with a play-off spot also still possible.

It’s been a difficult season for Ulster fans no doubt. But things can only go up from here.