Ulster hang on for Thomond Park victory as Munster fightback falls short

Ulster inflicted further misery on Munster as they withstood a second-half fightback to win at Thomond Park for the first time since 2014.

The visitors led 15-3 at the interval courtesy of tries from Jordi Murphy, Tom Stewart and the returning James Hume, having played with a strong wind advantage.

However, Ulster left a number of other opportunities behind them while Nathan Doak failed to convert any of the three tries, and they were almost punished as Munster launched a gutsy second-half comeback.

Out-half Jack Crowley punished Ulster indiscipline with two penalties and Shane Daly made it a one-point game on 66 minutes when he crossed in the corner while Cormac Izuchukwu was in the sin bin.

Ulster wilted as the game wore on yet still turned down shots at goal as they chased a try bonus point. It almost proved costly as the hosts produced a late rally, but a big turnover by Duane Vermeulen ended Munster's hopes of a morale-boosting win heading into the international break.

It was Munster's third interprovincial defeat in four weeks and leaves them 12th in the BKT United Rugby Championship table.

More to follow...