Home Semi-Final Is Leinster’s Target
The Leinster squad trained in UCD today ahead of Friday night’s clash with the Ospreys at the RDS (kick-off 7.45pm) in what is the final round of matches in the RaboDirect PRO12 before the play-offs.
There were a number of injuries arising from the province’s Amlin Challenge Cup semi final victory, with man-of-the-match Jamie Heaslip receiving several stitches to a right leg wound which is expected to limit his on-field preparations this week.
Cian Healy (knee) and Jonathan Sexton (dead leg) were substituted in the second half of Saturday’s game against Biarritz Olympique as precautions with both players able to train today.
Meanwhile, back rower Kevin McLaughlin broke his nose during the opening 40 minutes against the French club, but was able to return to action after treatment.
The Leinster management are optimistic that Gordon D’Arcy and Sean O’Brien, who were both ruled out of the Biarritz match with calf injuries, will be available for selection this week. Brendan Macken will return to full training this week after his broken hand.
The Leinster ‘A’ team booked their place in the British & Irish Cup final next month, although the semi-final victory over Munster ‘A’ Dooradoyle on Friday night came at a cost.
Forward dup Tom Denton (pulled hamstring) and Ben Marshall (shoulder) suffered injuries in a game which also saw promising back Adam Byrne make his return to provincial action, now fully recovered from his broken ankle sustained earlier this year.
A win over the Ospreys on Friday will ensure a home play-off berth for Leinster who are currently second in the RaboDirect PRO12 standings.
Tcket sales for the repeat of last year’s league decider have passed the 17,000 mark. Tickets are available from www.leinsterrugby.ie , the Leinster Rugby Store (Donnybrook stadium), Spar (Donnybrook) as well as Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.