Rugby League: Watson given five-match ban

DAVE WATSON, the Bradford Northern and New Zealand full-back, has been suspended for five matches, in a major blow to his side's title hopes, writes Dave Hadfield.

Watson's ban follows his sending-off for a late, high tackle at Leigh last Sunday. But he can return for the two matches against Wigan that should decide the destination of the title on 12 and 15 April.

Bradford are already without Paul Newlove and Karl Fairbank, on Test duty in France, for tonight's match at Salford. They will face a Salford side strengthened by the debut, on his return to The Willows, of Greg Austin and the recovery of Andy Gregory from a back injury.