O’Connell defiant as pressure on Munster

KEITH EARLS is facing a fight to be fit for Munster’s third and fourth round Heineken Cup clashes against the Scarlets.

The winger had a scan on his knee yesterday which revealed medial ligament damage. Munster’s medical team announced he will be out of action for at least four to six weeks but with a visit to the Scarlets pencilled in for December 10, and the return leg on December 18, he could miss the two crucial clashes.

It’s all adding to the pressure heaped on the side ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Northampton at home. Typically any team coming to Thomond Park for the start of the Heineken Cup would be hoping for a losing bonus point at most.