West and Davies had denied the charge on the basis that the injury was the result of an accidental collision at a maul. The incident had not been witnessed by referee Steve Havery.

The RFU verdict was: "A Rugby Football Union Disciplinary Panel meeting at the Three Tuns Hotel, New Elvet, Durham tonight (Tuesday, May 6) found West Hartlepool player Andrew Davies guilty of conduct contrary to good sportsmanship under Law 10(4)(k) in that he made contact with the eye or eye area of an opponent during a game at Durham City on March 29, 2008.

He was suspended for 52 weeks from May 7, 2008 until May 6, 2009. He can play again on May 7, 2009.

The panel hearing the case comprised Antony Davies, Cliff Barker and Robin Wannop."