Ward Will Be Fit For Irish

By Ridley Hall
May 7 2002

Panic over. Micky Ward is fit and will be in the squad to take on Irish at Kingston Park [Wednesday 7.30] in what promises to be a thrilling final home league game. Rob Andrew was considering flying a jet lagged James Isaacson back from Australia because of the front row crisis.

But Ward's shoulder injury is recovering and he'll go into the hat with Marius Hurter and George Graham as available props.

Having watched the re-run of the Irish and Sale game we'll need a fit and competitive front row. Sale won this match but it was tight and a great advert for the Premiership.

Give our own performance in demolishing Sarries it sets the game up for an epic battle. At stake is a possible fourth spot .. guaranteed Heineken Cup place and a home tie in the play offs.

The biggest injury worries are now over Steve Brotherstone and Tom May. The hooker had a dislocated thumb but should be OK while Tom went off after 15 minutes with a back injury and is more doubtful. If he doesn't make it we could see Dave Walder making a return at centre following Botham's excellent performances in the 15 shirt.