FOLLOWING their defeat in Paris last Saturday, the Irish rugby team’s medical staff have had a busy few days following the intense battle with France in round two of the RBS Six Nations Championship. Not only does the defeat see the chance of an historic back to back grand slam slip from their hands, but the game has left it’s mark on a number of key players. Ireland were defeated by France 33-10 as “les Blues” marked converted tries from Servat, Jauzion and Poitrenaud with Parra adding two penalties and a drop goal with replacement Michalak slotting a drop goal at the death.
Rob Kearney injured his right knee during the first half of the game and was forced to leave the field. Kearney had a scan on his knee on Sunday afternoon and it has confirmed a strain to his medial ligament. Kearney will undergo rehabilitation, but is considered doubtful for the game against England in Twickenham.
Brian O’Driscoll took a blow to his left knee and suffered some bone bruising to the joint. The injury will be monitored but the Ireland team are optimistic that he will be available for the England game.
Leo Cullen twisted his right ankle but there is no serious damage and he is expected to be fit for selection.
John Hayes took a blow to the head but the injury is not serious and he should be available for the England game.
The Ireland starting fifteen from the France game will come together this week for a short camp in Cork while the replacements will return to their provinces for selection in the next round of Magners League games this weekend.
France’s vocal scrum-half, Morgan Parra, kicked five of his six attempts at goal as his side ran out comfortable winners over Ireland in Paris last Saturday. Picture courtesy of RBS Six Nations
