Fractured skull victim Murphy on mend

EOIN MURPHY could be out of hospital by the weekend after doctors confirmed he won’t require surgery after fracturing his skull.

The Waterford defender’s condition improved yesterday but he will remain in Cork University Hospital for at least another few days allowing medical staff to monitor his injury.

Despite wearing a helmet, Murphy was knocked unconscious after taking an accidental blow to the head with a hurley while playing for his club Shamrocks against Abbeyside in Cappoquin last Friday.

After being brought by ambulance to Waterford Regional Hospital, Murphy was transferred over the weekend to Cork University Hospital after it was discovered he had fractured his skull and was bleeding.

The player was also complaining of severe headaches.

It’s not yet certain whether Murphy, a four-time Munster medallist, will be able to return to the game. Limerick’s Gavin O’Mahony made a full recovery after suffering a similar injury when in 2005 he was assaulted on a Cork city street.

O’Mahony captained the county to an Allianz Division Two title and promotion in Ennis last Saturday evening.

It’s believed Murphy was showing well for a starting spot for the Munster SHC semi-final against Limerick next month.

The 32-year-old was also set to feature in yesterday evening’s challenge game against Cork in Clashmore.

Meanwhile, there was some good news for Waterford with All Star forward John Mullane expected to be fit in time for the provincial semi-final in Thurles on June 12.

The De La Salle man fractured his finger playing for his club on Sunday and it’s anticipated he’ll be out for three to four weeks.

Mullane had missed the last two games of Waterford’s league campaign due to wedding preparations and honeymoon with his wife Stephanie.