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Paul O'Connell's Ireland fly home 2 players after bruising win over Georgia
By Ian Cameron
Ireland winger Jacob Stockdale is one of two players who have returned home to Ireland following their 34-5 victory over Georgia in Tbilisi on Saturday.
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Stockdale suffered a shoulder injury and will consult a specialist next week, the IRFU confirmed on Monday.
The Ulster back, who sustained an AC joint issue, had impressed in the game against the Lelos before being withdrawn on 36 minutes. He has been ruled out of next weekend’s Test match against Portugal in Lisbon.
Stockdale’s withdrawal comes as Cian Prendergast returns to full fitness following illness and is available for selection for the clash with the Portuguese.
Ulster prop Scott Wilson has also returned to Ireland after being called in as injury cover ahead of the Georgia fixture.
Other than Stockdale, there are no fresh injury concerns following the dominant victory over Georgia, where Paul O’Connell’s youthful Ireland side got the job done in Andy Farrell’s absence.
O’Connell – acting as interim head coach while Farrell oversees the British and Irish Lions tour – praised his players’ intent and accuracy in challenging conditions.
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“A lot of players away with the Lions and we’ve got a load of guys who are just dying for an opportunity,” said the former second row.
“You wonder how they will take that opportunity, particularly some of them hadn’t played games in a little while, so I’m very happy with how they went about their business.”
Tommy O’Brien scored twice on debut in the opening eight minutes, latching onto kicks from out-half Sam Prendergast, who also added four conversions and two penalties. Stand-in captain Craig Casey crossed early in the second half, while Nick Timoney added a late finish to round off the scoring.
Ireland will name their matchday 23 for the Portugal Test later this week.