France 33-10 Ireland, Six Nations, February 13
Flannery cited for Palisson kick
Scrum.com
February 15, 2010
Ireland hooker Jerry Flannery, France v Ireland, Six Nations, Stade de France, February 15, 2010
Ireland hooker Jerry Flannery has been cited © Getty Images
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Ireland hooker Jerry Flannery will appear before a Six Nations disciplinary panel on Wednesday morning after being cited for an alleged kick on France wing Alexis Palisson during his side's 33-10 defeat at the Stade de France on Saturday.

Flannery was lucky to concede only a penalty and escape a red card after felling Palisson with a swinging leg that could have caused serious injury to the France winger. As it was, Palisson limped off in the 25th minute with a dead leg as Ireland slipped behind, with prop Cian Healy sin-binned for a professional foul.

Citing commissioner Peter Brown, of the Scottish Rugby Union, had 48 hours to decide on his decision and had deemed the incident worthy of further investigation.

Ireland's next fixture is against England at Twickenham, but the reigning champions have an injury doubt over fullback Rob Kearney.

Captain Brian O'Driscoll should be available but Lions fullback Kearney may struggle to take his place in the back-three due to a knee injury. O'Driscoll incurred bruising to his left knee joint and will be monitored over the coming fortnight, but should receive the all clear to meet England.

Kearney, who limped off in the 33rd minute at the Stade de France, had a scan on his right knee which revealed a strain to his medial ligament. The extent of the damage means he is unlikely to be fit when Ireland seek to nudge their Six Nations back on track at Twickenham.

Second-row Leo Cullen lasted until the second half when he twisted his right ankle but should be given the green light to feature against Martin Johnson's side. Any fears that John Hayes may have to wait a little longer to win his 100th cap because of a blow to the head have eased after it was revealed the injury is not serious.

Hayes, the Munster tighthead, will become the first player to make a century of Test appearances for Ireland if he is involved at Twickenham. Ireland's starting XV against France will meet for a training camp in Cork this week while the replacements will be released to their provinces.

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