Rugby League: Leading men line up exits

TWO of Super League's more recognisable figures are set to leave the stage with Barrie-Jon Mather switching to rugby union and Adam Fogerty being written out of the script at Warrington.

Mather has confirmed he is to join Sale at the end of his contract with Castleford in December. The 6ft 7in former Wigan and Perth centre has agreed a three-and-a-half year contract that Cas were unable to match.

Meanwhile, Fogerty - star of The Full Monty and various soap operas - has decided that he has no further role to play at Wilderspool. The former Halifax and St Helens prop has played just a handful of games for Warrington and has been released after talks with the club's coach, Darryl Van de Velde. By way of compensation, Van de Velde has the injury-blighted Mark Hilton back after a second shoulder reconstruction for Sunday's game against Halifax, who will have John Bentley in their side for the first time since last summer.

Unbeaten Leeds have Richie Blackmore back from playing for New Zealand and Dean Lawford recovered from an ankle injury for tonight's match at the London Broncos. The London coach, Tony Currie, has promised a continuing improvement in his side's form and has recalled Nick Mardon and Darren Higgins after injury.

Super League has called a meeting with Hull, following "unacceptable behaviour" by a section of fans during the match against Bradford 12 days ago.

"We shall be discussing ways to eliminate what is plainly unacceptable behaviour from a section of the Boulevard crowd," said Super League's managing director, Maurice Lindsay.