Winger Werner Kok produced an all-action display as Ulster surged to second on the Vodacom URC log with a convincing victory over Munster in Belfast.
The former Blitzbok was at the heart of Ulster’s best attacking moments, repeatedly punching holes in Munster’s defence, winning aerial contests and providing crucial link play as the hosts pulled away with a powerful second-half display to win 28-3.
A scrappy first half in snowy conditions had seen the home side lead by only 6-3.
Ulster coach Richie Murphy’s half-time message had an immediate effect, and Kok was central to the response. Just minutes after the restart, he carved through the Munster line to ignite an attack that kept the visitors under sustained pressure. His sharp lines and work-rate on both sides of the ball ensured Ulster played much of the second half on the front foot.
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Hooker Tom Stewart burrowed over for the opening try after a sustained spell of pressure, before Kok produced a deft, flicked pass to send replacement fullback Jake Flannery clear for a decisive second. No 8 Bryn Ward then forced his way over to cap a commanding team effort as Ulster ran in three unanswered tries after the interval.
Kok was unlucky not to add a try of his own and Ulster fell just short of a four-try bonus point, but it did little to detract from a massive result.
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Munster, who rested several Ireland internationals, slipped from second to fourth on the log after a fourth defeat in six matches across competitions.
Photo: Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile via Getty Images
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