Cullen injury an upset for all but the opposition

CHRISTIAN Cullen yesterday spoke of his frustration at the shoulder problem which has delayed his Munster debut.

The All Black flyer is out of action for another six weeks, ruling him out of Munster's opening two Heineken Cup games.

After he undergoes keyhole surgery, Cullen will be re-assessed and it is hoped he can play in at least three of the remaining Heineken Cup pool fixtures.

Munster coach Alan Gaffney said yesterday: "It is disappointing from everyone's point of view opposition excepted, of course but particularly for Christian himself.

"However, the important thing is to treat the injury properly so that when he does debut for Munster he will be 100% fit. When that will be is something we cannot speculate on at this stage. We'll monitor his progress and do what's right by the player."

Cullen explained how an originally innocuous injury had turned into something more serious.

"After the NPC final, the diagnosis suggested a maximum recovery period of four weeks. But now it appears that is not the case.

"I am grateful however for the excellent medical expertise that has been afforded me and for the support and understanding shown by Munster and the IRFU.

"It's very frustrating for me and I am very disappointed for Munster and their supporters."

Meanwhile, UL/Bohs will look to avenge their narrow Charity Cup defeat to Garryowen when they face the Dooradoyle side in the Munster Senior Cup quarter final today.

Apart from long term injuries, coach Mike Tewkesbury has an almost full panel from which to choose. Missing, will be Ryan Hartigan who gave a wonderful display in last week's win over Sunday's Well as he and Breffni O'Donnell are taking part in an Irish U-21 trial match.

Hartigan's position in the second row will be filled by either Sean Browne or Declan O'Connell.

UL/Bohs will hope their young and speedy back line can maintain the high try-scoring rate that has seen them cross the line 17 times in four league games to date.

This all-Limerick tie is just one of four appealing quarter-finals.

Midleton take on high-flying Shannon at Towns Park and, although they should have their work cut out, the east Cork side are well capable of pushing the Division One contenders.

Waterpark's relatively young side have home advantage against Old Crescent at Ballinakill, and while the visitors will be favourites, a surprise is not beyond the bounds of possibility.

Although much of the gloss has gone from this competition over the last few years, it's clear the clubs still see it as a worthwhile prize.

Another club to benefit could be Clonakilty, at least in gate receipts, as Cork Constitution visit Shannonvale.

Red hot favourites, Con will be expected to coast to an easy win but home support for Clonakilty might make their job that bit more difficult.

UL/Bohs: C. Garvey, M. McPhail, K. Matthews, C. Finn, B. Murphy, I. Costello, A. Rees, M. Harty, G. Ryan (captain), J. Danagher, A. Hartigan, S. Browne/D O'Connell, P. van Esbeck, J. O'Neill, J. E. O'Connor.