TEAM-MATES of a rugby player accused of deliberately stamping on the head of an opponent told a court yesterday that he was not a "dirty" player.

Mark Briggs, 22, is accused of stamping twice on rival player Ian Cowley with severe force, minutes before the end of a cup match last year. He denies malicious wounding.

Teesside Crown Court heard that the men were playing in a cup tie on March 4, between Billingham and Hartlepool Rovers, in Hartlepool.

Mr Cowley played for Billingham and Mr Briggs for Hartlepool Rovers.

Mr Briggs, of Elwick Road, Hartlepool, said that if there had been any contact between himself and Mr Cowley that it was "entirely accidental".

Several of his team-mates said Mr Briggs was not overly aggressive. Each of the five players who gave evidence said they would not describe Mr Briggs as a "dirty player".

The court had heard that Mr Cowley had fielded the ball and was running towards the opposing team when he dropped to the ground. It was in the ensuing ruck between the two sides that he received an injury to the head.

Surgeon Gregor McLatchie, a sports injuries specialist, said that Mr Cowley's injury was not consistent with his head having been stamped on.

The case continues