Cotterill jailed over Cup assault

The Barrow defender James Cotterill was sentenced to four months in prison yesterday for breaking an opponent's jaw during an FA Cup match.

Cotterill, 24, pleaded guilty to punching the Bristol Rovers striker Sean Rigg, causing him grievous bodily harm during the first-round game on 11 November. Half an hour into the game Cotterill fractured Rigg's jaw in two places with a left-hook, Preston Crown Court heard. It must be held together with metal plates for the rest of his life.

The FA suspended Cotterill from any football-related activities after the match at Barrow's Holker Street ground. The ban lasts until 1 March. Rigg has made a recovery and is now back playing for Bristol Rovers. Cotterill was ordered to pay £270 costs.