O'Driscoll makes low-key return

Brian O'Driscoll returned to action yesterday as Leinster edged out Ulster 24-19 in their Celtic League clash at Ravenhill.

O'Driscoll made little impression following his second-half introduction but crucially appeared to suffer no ill-effects after his long lay-off.

O'Driscoll has been out of action since being the victim of an infamous "spear tackle" in the opening minute of the first Test between the British and Irish Lions and New Zealand last summer.

A superb Tommy Bowe try helped Ulster lead 13-9 at half-time. However, second-half tries from Gordon D'Arcy and Girvan Dempsey turned the game in Leinster's favour, although Ulster did earn a bonus point.

A decision on whether the Ospreys will appeal against the bans on Gavin Henson and Ian Evans may be delayed until the new year. The club said yesterday it had not received official documentation from the European Rugby Cup detailing the bans. Under ERC rules, an appeal must be lodged within 72 hours of the official confirmation being received.

Henson was suspended for 10 weeks and two days on Friday after being found guilty of elbowing Alex Moreno, the Leicester prop, during the Ospreys' 17-15 defeat last week.