O'Connor makes eight changes for Leinster

Fri, 16 May, 2014 - 13:48

Leinster Coach Matt O'Connor has made eight changes for the RaboDirect PRO12 semi-final against Ulster in the RDS at 7pm tomorrow.

In the pack, Jack McGrath, the injured Richardt Strauss and Mike Ross are replaced by Cian Healy, Sean Cronin and Martin Moore.

Devin Toner comes in to the second row for Leo Cullen who reverts to the bench while South African Quinn Roux takes Mike McCarthy's place.

In the back row, Rhys Ruddock and Shane Jennings replace Sean O'Brien and Jordi Murphy, while captain Jamie Heaslip is the only forward to retain his spot from last week.

Eoin Reddan starts at scrumhalf having recovered from the shoulder injury that has sidelined him since the Heineken Cup game against Toulon.

Coach Matt O'Connor said: "We have the utmost respect for the Ulster squad. Already this year we have had two incredibly physical and enthralling games against them and I have no doubt but that tomorrow will be no different.

"Training has gone very well and we are very excited by the challenge that this Ulster team will bring.

"This is where we wanted to be at the start of the year. We are at home in a semi-final having topped the table. Home advantage is crucial but it is up to us now to make sure that this advantage pays off.

"The players really can't wait for tomorrow. A full house in the RDS is an electric atmosphere and they look forward to taking to the field and rising to the challenge from Ulster. At this time of the year and with the quality of the squad at their disposal, we will need to be at our very best."

LEINSTER:

15: Rob Kearney

14: Fergus McFadden

13: Brian O'Driscoll

12: Gordon D'Arcy

11: Dave Kearney

10: Jimmy Gopperth

9: Eoin Reddan

1: Cian Healy

2: Sean Cronin

3: Martin Moore

4: Devin Toner