Softly, Softly Approach In ESL
Betting Scandal

The Rugby Football League has said the investigation into allegations of a betting scandal involving two St Helens players will take as long as necessary. Sean Long and Martin Gleeson are alleged to have won almost ?1,000 each after betting against their team.

Saints lost 54-8 to Bradford after leaving out 11 regulars, but the RFL say they will not be rushed.

"These things take time and we have no deadline for the investigating team," the RFL's John Huxley said.

"It's important for the game that we get this right.

"A full and rigorous investigation is being conducted."

Huxley refused to comment on a report in The Guardian newspaper which said Long had informed a nightclub crowd 36 hours prior to the game that players would be rested.

Some bookmakers in the St Helens area reported significant activity before the match.

The RFL has also launched a telephone hotline for anyone with information that may assist the investigation - the number is 0870 046 8587.