However while Ferris and co. were upstaging two-time European champions Munster, their Scottish semi-final opponents Edinburgh were claiming the scalp of four-time winners Toulouse, 19-14.

Having also claimed the scalp of Racing Metro, on French soil, in the Heineken Cup pool stages, Ferris is acutely aware of the challenge facing his side at the Aviva Stadium.

“It's going to be a tough day as Edinburgh are a different team in Europe when they have a settled team with their Scottish internationals,” said Ferris.

“I haven't played in front of 40,000 Ulster fans before so that's a first for me and I'm looking forward to it.

“There's a great buzz and it feels like everyone is heading to Dublin.

“The whole squad are really up for it, even those who don't look like making the match-day 23, and there is a lot of expectation.

"You have to respect a team who can win away to Racing Metro but hopefully we can fulfil the high expectations.”