WE'RE returning to heated moments in matches for the latest picture collection in our Bunch of Fives series.

Brawls, fisticuffs or 'dirty play' don't happen often in the modern game, but they are certainly a part of rugby league's history as these pictures show.

Back in the 1980s and before, it would not be unusual to see a referee jump in the middle of a fight to break it up or for police - who were a common sight to help with crowd control - to intervene.

And they would always get the fans off their feet!

Here's five moments of 'biff' and don't forget there's lots more 'Bunch of Fives' picture collections in this series for you to enjoy - focusing on the likes of spectacular moments, try celebrations, fans, players without shirts on and bizarre/funny incidents (Find the last one we published HERE).

1.

Warrington Guardian:

Alan Rathbone being held back by coach Tony Barrow and teammate Mark Roberts during the mid 1980s. Picture: Eddie Whitham

2.Warrington Guardian:

A policeman decides it's time to step in

3.Warrington Guardian:

A brave move having a 'set to' with former boxer, Nathan Wood

4.

Warrington Guardian:

A fight breaks out in a match at Wilderspool in 1971/72, the days when referees would jump in to try and split up the commotion.

5.

Warrington Guardian:

Here we go