ST HELENS has today been rocked by newspaper allegations that Sean Long and Martin Gleeson placed bets on Saints to lose Monday's thrashing at Bradford.

A three-page report in the Daily Mail alleges both players placed bets on the game that Saints, who lined-up with 11 players apparently ruled out with injury, lost 54-8.

On Friday morning the Rugby Football League said the allegations had been referred to its disciplinary commissioner "for a full and thorough investigations as a matter of urgency".

Saints promptly posted a statement on the club's website, in which chief executive, Sean McGuire, said: "The club takes very seriously these allegations and is co-operating with the Rugby Football League in its investigations."

Gleeson played in the game, returning after an injury lay-off. Long was among the 11 players who coach Ian Millward said were injured.

A statement issued by the game's governing body added: "The RFL has asked the Daily Mail to provide details and evidence of their allegations and any further information they may have concerning the matter. Currently the RFL has not seen such documents from the newspaper.

"The management of the St Helens club have confirmed they will co-operate fully investigation. The Operational Rules of the RFL specifically forbid betting and associated activity."

No further comment has yet been made by Saints. They face Salford tonight at Knowsley Road, kick-off 8pm.