Dawson extends Ulster contract

Flanker Kieron Dawson has signed a one-year contract extension with Ulster that will keep him playing at Ravenhill until the end of next season.

Dawson, who played 190 games for London Irish and has been capped 21 times for Ireland, turned 33 in January, but insists he still gets a "buzz" from pulling on the jersey.

"I am very pleased and honoured to be offered the opportunity to continue playing with the Ulster squad for another season," he said today. "I have thoroughly enjoyed the last few months under Matt and Steve Williams and believe that as a squad we have turned a corner and will have a highly successful end of season run.

"I am looking forward to next season with renewed optimism and feel that I can still contribute a great deal to Ulster Rugby. Competition for places will be very tough with some hugely talented backrow forwards like David Pollock, Chris Henry and Thomas Anderson coming through, but I feel that my experience can be of value to a young squad.

"I still get a real buzz when I pull on the white jersey and love to play at Ravenhill, so I am very proud to continue my career at Ulster."

Coach Matt Williams has welcomed the news, describing Dawson as a "great pro with a career full of experience and good leadership skills".

He added: "Kieron has been in great form over the last few games and I am just delighted that he has committed to Ulster."

The former Queens University student was part of the 1999 Ireland World Cup squad and was also capped by Ireland A, the under-21s and the Barbarians.