The Munster squad trained in Cork today as preparations continued for Saturday’s GUINNESS PRO12 final round game against the Newport Gwent Dragons at Irish Independent Park (kick-off 3pm).
Following on from last weekend’s physical encounter with Ulster at Kinsgpan Stadium, a number of injuries have been reported by the Munster medical team.
Simon Zebo and Dave Kilcoyne will require further treatment and assessment this week, while Tommy O’Donnell is expected to be unavailable for selection against the Dragons.
Flanker O’Donnell, who was replaced in the opening minutes in Belfast, will undergo a scan for a leg injury, while winger Zebo, who has been managing back spasms in the last week, will continue to be reviewed.
It has been confirmed that prop Kilcoyne, a half-time replacement in Belfast, sustained a concussion and he is currently following the return-to-play protocols.
There was good news for full-back Felix Jones. He departed the stadium with his arm in a sling, but further investigation ruled out any hand injury and he received the all-clear to return to full training today. Prop James Cronin will continue to integrate back into training this week as he rehabs a bruised knee.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s game as his side chase a home semi-final, Munster head coach Anthony Foley said: “It won’t be easy against the Dragons, but it’s about getting good preparation in and turning up with a big home support in Cork. It’s important to make it as tough a place for them (the Dragons) to come.
“We’ll be up for the occasion in Cork. Other results are out of our hands and we’ll have to make sure we do the best for ourselves. No side has ever won an away semi-final in the PRO12 – that says it all and emphasises the importance of us doing a job next weekend.
“We don’t know if we’ll get to play in front of home supporters again after Saturday’s game, we hope we do, but it will be important to thank the fans by putting in a performance and by taking to the field after to thank them, regardless of the result.”
Join Munster on the #HomeRun from just €;20 for adults, while great value family packs are available from €;40. Purchase tickets online here, from the Munster Rugby Ticket Offices at Irish Independent Park and Thomond Park, or by calling 0818 719300.
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