Telford Tiger Tom Watkins given five game ban

Telford Tigers' player-coach Tom Watkins has received a five-game ban for his outburst at the referee in Sheffield, writes CAROLINE GARBETT.

Watkins let his frustrations spill over last Saturday when he felt a penalty should have been called against Sheffield for interference and a resulting goal for the Steeldogs disallowed.

The match referee gave two misconduct penalties - which automatically become a game ban - and a match penalty.

Watkins was also carrying penalty points which, added to the game and match, see him suspended for five games.

Watkins said: "Of course I regret losing my cool, and it was behaviour that I wouldn't condone from any of my players.

"The decision seems very harsh, when you compare it to penalties given for other offences - such as causing injuries, starting a bench clearance or biting an official.

"But sadly we are not in a position to appeal as that would take valuable funds."