Rugby:Australian Matt Williams has been unable to juggle family life Down Under with his role as Ulster head coach and has tonight stepped down after almost 18 months in charge at Ravenhill.

Williams took over from Mark McCall in December 2007 at a time when the province was seemingly rock bottom without a win in the Heineken Cup and languishing at the foot of the Magners League.

To his credit Williams instilled confidence and brought the team forward to guarantee Ulster European rugby next season. That said they lost their way and eventually finished eighth in the Magners League.

“I have a young family in Sydney and upon my return to the province it has become clear that I need to give them more of my time,” said Williams, who left Ulster Rugby by mutual consent with one year remaining on his contract.

“I have enjoyed every day here in Ulster and am deeply sorry to leave in these circumstances."

"I am delighted with the progress of the Ulster players. The team is still in the very early days of their development. They have won some excellent victories.

“There were outstanding performances in this year’s Heineken Cup and the win against Harliquins and the defeat of Munster at Thomond Park in the Magners League are the stand out matches. “We lost too many close games due to our inexperience,” added the former Leinster and Scotland coach.

“That will change with time. There needs to be patience and understanding that this team will grow into a powerful outfit in years to come. I am deeply disappointed that I will not be there with them on the journey.

“From Stephen Ferris, Paddy Wallace and Rory Best through to Darren Cave, Ian Whitton, David Pollock and Niall O'Connor, I was privileged to coach Ulster and witness the potential of their talent. I will be watching out for them next season but from Australia.”

Jeremy Davidson has already been appointed assistant coach for next season and will now be one of the names thrown in the hat

to succeed Williams.