Gower summoned
before board

Penrith Panthers National Rugby League team captain Craig Gower faces suspension or a substantial fine over allegations of misbehaviour at a Sunshine Coast charity event.

Penrith football manager Mick Leary has investigated claims Gower groped Balmain great Wayne Pearce's 17-year-old daughter Tatum at last week's Jack Newton Celebrity Golf Classic after-party. Gower is also accused of chasing Pearce's 16-year-old son Mitchell with a bottle at the Classic held at the Twin Waters Resort.

Penrith club chairman Barry Walsh says the board decided Gower has a case to answer and will be called before the board on January 4. Panthers chief executive Glenn Matthews says Gower faces a fine of up to a quarter of his annual salary - about $100,000 ? or suspension if the allegations are proved correct.

Gower has apologised to the Pearce family for the incidents.