Cockayne escapes prison for assault

The full-back was remanded in custody this week after pleading guilty and being warned that he faced a prison term. Yesterday, however, his 12-month sentence was suspended and he was ordered to do 240 hours' community service and pay £250 compensation to a victim he kicked and punched while he was on the floor. Rovers and the RFL have yet to decide what they will do about the latest high-profile case of violence involving a Super League star, a week after St Helens' Leon Pryce was told that he is likely to be jailed for assault.

"As a club, we take the court's decision and Ben's sentence very seriously," a Hull KR statement said. "We intend to meet with Ben and his representatives to discuss the outcome."

The RFL is referring the matter to its compliance department, which has the power to deregister the player.