Richard Cockerill: Leicester Tigers disappointed by ban

Leicester say they are "disappointed" by the way the Rugby Football Union handled Richard Cockerill's hearing and his subsequent nine-game ban.

The Tigers boss was suspended after his antics in the Premiership final win over Northampton, when he harangued fourth official Stuart Terheege.

Tigers said they will await the full report before considering an appeal.

But they added they are unhappy with "elements of the way in which they [the RFU] have conducted this case".

Cockerill, who pleaded not guilty, was banned for his conduct towards Terheege in the feisty 37-17 victory over Saints on 25 May.

The former England hooker was angered by a challenge by Northampton's Courtney Lawes on Toby Flood that eventually led to the Tigers fly-half coming off because of concussion, and Cockerill rushing down from the stands to pitch-side.

A Leicester statement read: "Leicester Tigers are extremely disappointed that Richard Cockerill has been found guilty of any offence relating to the Aviva Premiership Final.

"The club will, therefore, await the full written judgement so it can determine whether to appeal against the disciplinary panel's decision or not.

"Leicester Tigers are, however, disappointed with the Rugby Football Union's conduct in this matter.

"There are elements of the way in which they have conducted this case which, in our opinion, calls into question the new disciplinary structure and we will be taking this up with the RFU at the earliest opportunity.

"The club will not make any further comment about this until there has been an opportunity to discuss it with the Union and it is appropriate that this is dealt with privately."

In response to the Tigers' statement, an RFU spokesman said: "We've yet to receive any feedback from Leicester Tigers as to why they felt 'disappointed' with the way the case was conducted. Any communication from them will be carefully considered."