Ulster ran in convincing 37-18 winners over the Newport-Gwent Dragons at Ravenhill.

Alan Solomon’s’ side registered four tries. First half scoring came when with captain and back row Andy Ward crossing, and Adam Larkin adding a conversion and two penalties. The Dragons only first-half scores coming from a Craig Wallow penalty and drop-goal.

Ulster turned on the style in the second period, with Tony Charter, Ryan Constable and Tyrone Howe all going over as the 1999 European champions stamped their authority on the match.

Ulster outside-half Larkin who, wearing the No.10 shirt in the absence of Ireland’s David Humphrey’s and recent call-up Paddy Wallace – converted all four tries and add three penalties in a fine display that will keep coach Solomon’s’ confidence high during the World Cup period.

For the Dragons, former Saracens wing Gerald Areas and ex-Bristol scrum-half Gareth Barber scored their tries – Wallow converting one on an unproductive night for the Gwent outfit.