More trouble for Ruddock

Wales coach Mike Ruddock has suffered another potential setback ahead of next weekend’s RBS 6 Nations opener against England at Twickenham.

Llanelli Scarlets flanker Dafydd Jones was sent off for stamping during his team’s 30-13 Celtic League defeat against Ulster in Belfast last night.

It is understood that Jones is earmarked for a place on the Wales bench at Twickenham, but he could now miss out, pending a disciplinary hearing and possible suspension.

It is the last thing Ruddock needs, having already lost a banned Gavin Henson for the opening Six Nations games against England and Scotland, while Henson’s fellow Grand Slam heroes of last season Ryan Jones, Tom Shanklin, Kevin Morgan and Brent Cockbain are all injured and out of the competition.

Ruddock is due to announce his team to face England on Tuesday, and Jones’ dismissal could disrupt some of his plans as Wales target a first Twickenham victory since 1988.

Cardiff Blues lost 13-9 at home to Edinburgh, adding to the pressure on head coach David Young. It follows the seven-try 48-3 demolition by Leeds in the Heineken Cup.

The only try of last night’s match, from Edinburgh’s Argentine winger Francisco Leonelli, came from a Blues’ error, which summed up the shambolic state of affairs at the Arms Park at the moment.

Glasgow’s hopes of claiming a Heineken Cup berth next season were dealt a blow when Celtic League champions Neath-Swansea Ospreys dug deep to win a dour clash at Old Anniesland 22-8.

Buoyant Leinster hit the hapless Borders for nine tries in a thumping 62-14 win at Donnybrook.