Humphreys lasted just 10 minutes of his 163rd and final cap for his beloved province before he pulled up with a calf injury having overcome a season-long Achilles problem to start Ulster's final Magners League game against Cardiff Blues.

Almost 10,000 supporters had turned out to bid their farewell to the Ulster legend and he was afforded an emotional standing ovation as he ran out with two of his children, James and Katy.

And the crowd were back on their feet as the 36-year-old former Ireland out-half was forced to depart soon after in what was his 163rd cap for his province.

And even though Cardiff went on to win 26-17, Humphreys said it had all been worthwhile.

"It was not the way I wanted go out but having run out and experienced that reception at Ravenhill it was worth it," he said.

"In an ideal world I wouldn't have limped off but I have no regrets at all about playing.

"I played tonight for a certain reason and I think I achieved what I set out to do £ to bring an end to what has been a fantastic 10 years. I am not an emotional person but running out with my two children tonight was one of the proudest moments I have ever had."