Hodgson inspires Sharks victory

Leeds, who last won in the Premiership back in October, saw their winless run on the road - which now stretches back to November 2005 - extended thanks to Hodgson's near-impeccable kicking display and a try from Luke McAlister.

With England rival Jonny Wilkinson stuttering at present and Ashton reluctant to throw in Wasps' youngster Danny Cipriani into the unforgiving Six Nations limelight - Hodgson put the pressure on the pair with a faultless showing.

A penalty miss from Alberto Di Bernado proved to be all the encouragement the Sale pack needed as Leeds were penalised at the scrum, allowing Hodgson to score the first points of the game.

The Sale number 10 soon added to his personal tally; first knocking over a penalty after Magnus Lund was pulled back and moments later he punishing further Leeds' indiscipline with his third three-pointer of the half.

New Zealander Luke McAlister was pulling all the strings for Sale in midfield and he ended a run from his own half by galloping over despite the best efforts of wing Tom Biggs.

Di Bernado struck early for the visitors with a penalty as Leeds attempted to drag themselves off the canvas in the opening minutes of the second half.

However, Sale were soon back in control as Hodgson continued to add to his ever-growing points' tally kicking a further two penalties as Leeds indiscipline was punished.

Sale's dominance was further aided when Leeds substitute Adam Balding was sin-binned for a high tackle on England wing Mark Cueto in the 70th minute.

Hodgson turned down three kicks at goal in the second as Sale pushed for a second try and their dominance was finally rewarded late on as replacement Chris Bell scored seven minutes from time for the Sharks.