Lions: Wood on course for first test start

Lions hooker Keith Wood is expected to be fit for next Saturday’s first Test

against Australia in Brisbane.

The Ireland captain, a key part of coach Graham Henry’s Test plans, has been

suffering from a problem with his left knee.

But Wood has reported much better movement today, and the Lions medical

staff expect him to be available for the weekend.

There is also better news about centre Will Greenwood, who has been ruled

out of Saturday’s clash due to an ankle ligament injury.

Greenwood, who was hurt during the Lions’ 41-24 success against New South

Wales two days ago, is still on crutches at the team hotel.

But Lions’ manager Donal Lenihan said: ‘‘Will has been swimming in the pool

regularly, and his condition has improved.

‘‘The swelling around his ankle is expected to go down during the next 48

hours, after which he will be further assessed.’’

Fly-half Ronan O’Gara , who required eight stitches after he was punched

repeatedly by New South Wales full-back Duncan McRae on Saturday, will be

among the replacements for tomorrow’s clash against New South Wales Country.

Swelling beneath O’Gara’s left eye is receding, and he will have padding on

it tomorrow. However, he is only likely to be used off the bench in a last

resort.

Ireland flanker David Wallace and England hooker Dorian West, meanwhile, are

racing to be with the Lions in time for tomorrow’s game.

Wallace has been called up to take over from injured England star Lawrence

Dallaglio, while West has been summoned as cover for Wood and Robin McBryde, who has a thigh problem.

Both Wallace and West have been named on the bench, although they won’t

arrive in Sydney until some eight hours before kick-off and must then make a

connecting flight to Coffs Harbour, which is scheduled to land just after

breakfast-time.

Lenihan tonight confirmed the full replacements’ bench, which comprises

West, Wallace, Darren Morris, Scott Murray, O’Gara, Matt Dawson and Matt

Perry.

Wallace was with the Ireland squad at a training camp in Poland when he

received his call-up, while West, having recently completed a successful

England tour of North America, was on a family holiday in Spain.