Suspended Heworth ARL coach Keith Loft has had his ban reduced on appeal.

He was originally banned for two years following a breach of club rules.

But the reduced penalty means he is now banned from the club for six months with another six months suspended for a period of two years.

He is also unable to hold any official position for two years.

It is hoped joint coach Craig Forsyth will now coach the side for the forseeable future, possibly with the assistance of first teamer Chris Hammerton who has been helping out over the last couple of weeks.

It is not known how many of the players will now return to action. The majority of first teamers refused to play in the match at Wigan St Judes two weeks ago after the original suspension was revealed.

Last week's match was called off because of a water-logged pitch but they are due to travel to Rochdale Mayfield for a National Conference first division fixture tomorrow.

Heworth spokesman Ken Sykes expects a number of the players to return but said it is now up to them.

"As far as the club is concerned that's the end of the matter and I hope now we can move forward and all the players will respond," he said.

"We're not in the best position in the league. We need to at least stabalise our position and we're hoping the players will now support the club."

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