A RUGBY player twice stamped on the head of an opponent with severe force, a court heard.
Mark Briggs, who denies a charge of malicious wounding, is said to have attacked rival player Ian Cowley minutes before the end of a cup match last year.
Teesside Crown Court heard yesterday how the men had been playing in a cup tie, on March 4, between Billingham and Hartlepool Rovers.
The match, played in Hartlepool, was watched by about 200 people.
Former Billingham coach Michael Riby told the court that Ian Cowley, playing for Billingham, fielded the ball and was running towards the opposing team when he dropped to the ground.
Several Hartlepool players ran towards him and one player stamped on his head twice.
Mr Riby said they were "severe, very heavy blows".
He identified Hartlepool player Mark Briggs, of Elwick Road, in the town, as the alleged culprit. The trial continues
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