Leinster counting the cost of derby victory

Leinster’s 22-16 victory over Munster on Saturday night came at a price with the medical team reporting a number of fresh injury concerns ahead of Sunday’s PRO12 clash against Zebre in Stadio del Tricolore.

The main cause for concern was Dave Kearney, who was knocked unconscious midway through the second half. The winger suffered a blow to the head from the boot of Paul O’Connell as the lock tried to fly-hack the ball.

Kearney was released from hospital on Sunday morning, and is facing into a spell on the sidelines as he follows the return to play guidelines for head injury.

Gordon D’Arcy suffered a mild calf strain in the opening minutes of the game but it is hoped that the Ireland centre will be available for the trip to Italy next weekend, while second row Quinn Roux (dead leg) should also be back in the frame.

Try-scorer Brian O’Driscoll suffered cramp but he was fit to finish the game, while Sean O’Brien received treatment to a cut above his left eye which required stitches.

Neither knock is expected to prevent either international from missing out on selection ahead of Friday’s midday team announcement.

The province expect to have Jonathan Sexton and Fergus McFadden available, although this weekend’s game is set to come a week too soon for back-row forward Jordi Murphy as he recovers from a broken hand.

Heinke van der Merwe (knee) continues to receive treatment, while Eoin O'Malley is doubtful but making progress after his long term knee injury.