Panthers back down

The Penrith Panthers have backed down from the tough penalty imposed on three lower grade players last month, today confirming they would be allowed to resume training despite the fact that the trio are yet to face court on an assault charge.

The Panthers immediately stood down the three players last month after they allegedly assaulted a taxi driver near Parramatta.

Today, Panthers CEO Shane Richardson said the players would be available for selection this weekend.

?On the basis of the allegations and police charges, we temporarily suspended the three while we looked at all the options that were available to us,? Richardson said.

?After looking into the matter, and discussing the situation with the players, their managers and the NRL, we have decided that each player should be allowed to train and make himself available for selection until his case is heard.?

Richardson said that it?s his understanding that the club have no other option but to re-instate the players.

?? from a legal standpoint we have no other option. The court matter will and must run its course.? The players ? Richard Fa?aoso, Luke Cross and Albert Peters ? were charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm after the alleged incident and are to appear in Parramatta Local Court in April 26.

?There will be a disciplinary hearing once the Court action is over.?