I think the RFL statement takes things out of the club's hands. If there is to be a rugby based punishment, they will decide. Which is perhaps is as it should be and at least saves Rovers from having to make a controversial decision.

Clubs are always going to luck after their own interests. I can think of a very good example - but stating the obvious truth of that situation might technically be libellous.

If the RFL does adopt a new hardline approach, then fair enough they have to start somewhere. As long as they are consistent and don't revert to minding their own business when a high-profile international player is in trouble.

Personally i think it would be a fantastic PR move for Rovers to make a decision here and ban him for a short period of time, simply to make the point that as the employer of a family club this will not be tolerated.

Well i hope he will not be playing at the KC in the derby.

If he is i may strongly think about boycotting until the game is clear of thugs

So you haven't been since Raynor was done then

what ben did is far worse

hence why the rfl are getting involved

Violence with racial overtones !!

They both stink in my book, lets hope you don't ever get onto jury service if thats your idea of impartiality.

Quote Danny 2="Danny 2"what ben did is far worse hence why the rfl are getting involved '" both as bad as each other. www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2008/ju ... uperleague And the rolling eyes shows you up for the you are.

Quote Danny 2="Danny 2"what ben did is far worse hence why the rfl are getting involved '" both as bad as each other. www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2008/ju ... uperleague And the rolling eyes shows you up for the you are.

Cockayne's was worse in view of the sentence passed (linked to the severity of the offence), but both are totally unacceptable and have no place in our sport.

Raynor's was pretty bad:

[urlhttp://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2008/jul/28/hullfcrl.superleague[/url

The sentences were not massively dissimilar and the RFL cannot second guess the justice system.

If the RFL do get involved it will represent a change of policy. Possibly a justified one, but it will reflect a difference in their stance more than a difference in these two particular crimes.

Which is all well and good, IF they take the same approach to others who have transgressed and not use this ocassion as an example and then look away when its certain other players and clubs involved.

I have a sneaky feeling Ben is likely to be the only one to cop for it.

It's good to see a (largely) sensible debate between Rovers and FC fans, keep it up people!