I WAS driving back from Worcester City’s FA Cup match at Leamington when I heard the radio commentator describe Ben Flower’s double punch on Lance Hohaia in the Super League Grand Final.

Now, having watched the incident, the six-month ban that has been meted out is the least Flower deserves, and Hohaia is fortunate he isn’t seriously hurt.

It was common assault, plain and simple.

Not only did the Wigan prop pole-axe his St Helens opponent but landed another blow to the New Zealander’s face when he lay defenceless on the ground.

Hitting a man when’s he’s down — a cowardly act if ever there was one.

While Hohaia sparked the incident by shoulder-charging at Flower, something he has accepted a one-match ban for, the actions of the 26-year-old Wales international by way of retaliation are inexcusable. No matter what the occasion, the pressure or the stakes.

Greater Manchester Police are looking at the situation and have not ruled out further action.

Flower will miss the start of next season but it doesn’t look like Hohaia will press charges after admitting he didn’t “hold any grudges against Ben”.

If I did what Flower did in the office or in a bar, I would be looking at jail. Suggesting that what happens on a pitch should stay on the pitch doesn’t wash here. While there are laws that govern sporting activities, they are not there to provide a safeguard for criminal acts.

If they were, it would effectively make it fair game for everyone to settle personal grievances without fear of significant sanction.

Flower behaved like a cowardly thug and should be wholly ashamed of his actions.