Having admitted to some strong words with the players earlier this week as they reflected on an unacceptable and dismal display against The Ospreys last Saturday, Williams has also backed up those words with actions.

Following four straight defeats, coupled with an unacceptable display in Wales, the News Letter predicted the no nonsense coach would finally wield the axe and on Thursday that was backed up when Williams made eight changes and two positional switches to the starting line-up for the visit of Edinburgh.

Dumped from the squad were Paul Marshall, Rob Dewey, Stuart Philpott, while demoted to the bench are Isaac Boss, Carlo Del Fava, Justin Fitzpatrick, Nigel Brady, Timoci Nagusa, Matt McCullough and Kieran Dawson.

In Dawson's favour, easily Ulster's best player last week just behind replacement back, Paul Steinmetz, Williams said he due a rest after some strong performances.

It was expected that Ulster captain, Rory Best, would return to the hooker berth after injury and also David Pollock, in a similar situation after three weeks rehabbing, would come into the backrow.

Also in the pack, Stephen Ferris, Ed O'Donoghue and Tom Court were all promoted form the bench.

There is a new midfield combination with the experienced All Black, Steinmetz joining Darren Cave, the latter recalled to the squad, while Andrew Trimble moves to the wing to replace the relatively poor showing Fijian, Nagusa.

Williams added: "The changes I have made are all based on performance, apart from Kieron Dawson who was exceptional last week and has been our best player lately. He is on the bench only because we are giving him a rest from the starting line this week.

"It is great to have Paul Steinmetz back to full fitness, he had an operation during the summer. I thought Paul played well against the Ospreys and provided quality leadership on the pitch."

With Ulster facing their opening Heineken Cup pool match next Saturday (October 11) against unbeaten French side, Stade Francais, the need to put in a good performance and also get a win to lift morale is a point not missed by the current side.

Williams said: "Last week we were not at the races and our play was simply not acceptable.

"The players and I had words on Tuesday, but what was said will remain between the boys and me. We win together and we lose together.

"I will be expecting a reaction!"