John Hodnett and Alex Kendellen run riot in Munster's win over Ulster

PA Sport Staff

John Hodnett helped himself to four tries and Alex Kendellen a hat-trick as Munster beat Ulster 41-14 at Thomond Park to boost their bid for a top-eight finish.

Winger Aitzol Arenzana-King got the visitors off to the perfect start when he went over with just 13 minutes gone, and stand-off Jake Flannery made it 7-0.

However, the home side turned the tables swiftly in the wake of Ulster flanker Tom Brigg’s 23rd-minute yellow card, fellow back row Hodnett crossing twice within five minutes and fly-half JJ Hanrahan converting the second to edge them in front.

Munster flexed their muscles as the second half got under way, replacement Kendellen touching down twice to wrap up the bonus point and Hanrahan successful with his second attempt at goal to stretch his side’s lead to 24-7.

Hodnett completed his treble with 25 minutes still to play and after replacement John Andrew had touched down for the visitors and Flannery kicked the conversion, made it four with 68 minutes gone.

But Kendellen went over for a third time seconds later and Hanrahan took his tally to six points to ease Munster across the finishing line.