A Cornwall RLFC player has issued an apology after using homophobic language in a match which has consequently seen him suspended for eight matches.

Luke Collins was issued with the suspension and a £75 fine for using the homophobic language in a recent fixture against Doncaster Knights on Saturday, July 9, where he was removed from the field of play by the match referee as the incident was referred to the RFL's disciplinary tribunal.

Collins was issued a red card in the 12th minute of the game as Cornwall went on to lose 44-10 on the day.

A statement published on Cornwall RLFC's Instagram account said: "Luke Collins has been handed an eight game suspension and fined £75 by the Rugby Football League for using homophobic language in the recent Betfred League One match against Doncaster.

"Luke was sent from the field by the match referee and the incident refereed to the RFL's disciplinary tribunal.

"Luke has made a sincere and profound apology for his actions and before the tribunal, took part in further educational training on the subject of diversity and equality.

"The club wish to place on record that this isolated incident is no way a reflection on Cornwall RLFC and the values it holds as an inclusive and diverse professional entity,which welcomes all communities, in every aspect of it's day to day operations."

A statement from the player said: "I would like to formally apologise and express deep remorse for my actions in last weekend's game against Doncaster. I reacted to verbal abuse directed at me and in the heat of the moment, I responded with an inappropriate homophobic word.

"I am incredibly embarrassed by my actions as this was extremely unacceptable and unprofessional. It is in no way, a representation of the person or player I am, nor my club Cornwall RLFC.

"I understand that even in the heat of the moments, homophobic words and homophobia have no place in rugby league nor society. I would like to apologise to anyone who may have heard my language or was offended by my actions on Saturday, July 9.

"While I can honestly state that my actions were not born of any genuine prejudice, I recognise that I need to do better. With the help of my club, I have completed an equality and diversity course to help me moving forward, to ensure nothing like this ever happens again. Thankyou for giving me the opportunity to address this issue and express my profound regret."

The eight game ban will mean Collins will miss the rest of RLFC's maiden league season with the Choughs having six games left of their league campaign.

Their next match is at home to Swinton Lions on Saturday, July 23. Kick off at 2pm