Salford Red Devils are under investigation for allegedly breaching the Super League salary cap.
Salford could lose up to 20 points if an RFL probe reveals that they exceeded the £1.825m wage ceiling in the last two years.
The only successful prosecution of a salary cap breach was back in 2007 when Wigan lost four points.
Ian Watson’s side have enjoyed a promising start to the 2016 campaign, with four points from five games.
Owner Marwan Koukash said he was baffled by the charge today on Twitter.
I do not know what all this fuss is about .
Calm down !!!— Marwan Koukash (@drmarwanK) March 4, 2016
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Fans quickly rallied to his cause.
@drmarwanK To be honest it shows you the passion us fans have for the club and its players were Salford till we die Doc
— John Walton (@JohnWalton4) March 4, 2016
@drmarwanK in Marwan we trust…
— Michelle (@mich90elle) March 4, 2016
But if the charge goes ahead it could effectively put an end to the Devils’ season.
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In a statement the sport’s governing body said: “The RFL has issued charges in relation to alleged breaches of the RFL Operational Rules and Salary Cap Regulations concerning contractual arrangements made with Salford players in 2014 and 2015.
“The charges will be considered by an independent Off Field Operational Rules Tribunal, at a date to be confirmed.”
