McEntee cleared after inquiry

Lansdowne's Colin McEntee will play in tomorrow's AIB Division One clash against Terenure at Lansdowne Road three days after attending a Leinster Branch Disciplinary hearing.

An incident at a ruck in the Smithwick's Floodlit Cup final that left Clontarf flanker Pat Ward with an 85 per cent tear to the cornea of his eye brought about the inquiry.

On the intervention of a touch judge, McEntee was penalised by referee Eugene Carberry. Clontarf decided that the incident merited further investigation and cited the player. The Leinster Branch examined the matter, including viewing a video, and it is understood that they will not be taking any further action against McEntee.

Secretary Sandy Heffernan conceded that the Leinster Branch's view of the matter, following investigation, was that appropriate measures had been taken by the match officials at the time in accordance with the laws and that no further action was deemed necessary.

Lansdowne official Joe Leddin admitted: "The Lansdowne club would view any foul play in a serious manner and would in no way condone any transgression. In this instance it was confirmed to us, by the player involved, and the match officials that there was no malicious intent. Our primary concern now is that Pat Ward makes a full recovery."

For tomorrow's match, Terenure make one change and a positional switch from the side that beat St Mary's. Girvan Dempsey moves from the centre to the right wing to replace the injured David Coleman.

Shane Cullen will partner Michael Smyth in midfield. Paul Hennebry has recovered from a knee injury and will take his place at out-half.

Conor Kilroy returns to the Garryowen team for today's game with Old Belvedere at Dooradoyle, having missed the Dolphin match through injury. He reclaims his place on the wing from Kevin O'Riordan. Coach Philip Danaher will monitor morning fitness tests on prop Gavin Walsh and hooker Paul Cunningham. Kieran Ronan and Pat Humphreys will step in if required.

Clontarf have yet to make a decision on who will fill the tight-head prop position against champions Shannon. Ivan Cummins deputised for the suspended Peter McQuillan last week but picked up a rib injury. As McQuillan is still banned, coach Brent Pope is desperately hoping that Cummins can recover in time for what is certain to be a very arduous assigment.