Tuitupou handed three-week suspension

MUNSTER have lost another first choice player through suspension for Saturday’s Heineken Cup clash with Toulon at Thomond Park.

Sam Tuitupou was yesterday handed a three-week ban when found guilty of a dangerous tackle on London Irish scrum half Paul Hodgson in the opening round of the tournament last week.

Tuitupou joins Lifeimi Mafi on the sidelines and it leaves Munster coach Tony McGahan with a selection dilemma in advance of this weekend’s tie. The former champions will await a written report from Independent Judicial Officer Simon Thomas (Wales) before deciding whether or not to appeal.