The lifetime ban imposed on Trevor Brennan after being found guilty of striking a supporter during a European Cup match has been reduced to five years on appeal.
Brennan was orignally banned for life from playing rugby union and from participating in any European Rugby Cup competition after he was found guilty of striking a supporter during the clash between Toulouse and Ulster at Stade Ernest Wallon in January.
Brennan announced his retirement from the game prior to receiving the lifetime ban in March.
The former St Mary's and Toulouse player made a personal plea to a three man appeal committee approved by the European Rugby Cup last week.
The secondrow also had character witnesses speak on his behalf.
Following this, the comittee decided today to uphold the original decision of the ERC disciplinary committee, which found Mr Brennan guilty of misconduct. However, it added that in its view the original suspension was disproportionate and should be reduced.
The appeal committee took the decision to reduce the sanction with the result that Brennan will be suspended from playing rugby for five years from 1 June 2007.
Brennan's ban from participating in future ERC tournaments has also been reduced to a five-year suspension.
The committee upheld the original fine of €25,000 imposed on Brennan and the order to pay €5,000 compensation to his victim Patrick Bamford together with the costs of convening the disciplinary hearing.
