RUGBY UNION: Welsh kept waiting on appeal, but dealt Arscott blow (From Bicester Advertiser)

RUGBY UNION: Welsh kept waiting on appeal, but dealt Arscott blow

9:30am Friday 22nd March 2013 in Sport By Ed Mezzetti, Sports reporter specialising in Rugby, Cricket and Athletics. Call me on 01865 425456

LONDON Welsh are still waiting to learn the result of their appeal against a five-point penalty and £15,000 fine for fielding an ineligible player.

The Exiles’ appeal against their punishment for playing scrum half Tyson Keats without a correct visa was heard yesterday.

But the club, who play at Oxford’s Kassam Stadium, must wait until at least today to learn if they will remain at the foot of the Aviva Premiership table – which was where the points deduction left them.

Welsh confirmed the news last night in a statement saying the appeal panel “will now consider their decision which will be communicated in due course”.

The Exiles appealed because they believe they have been unfairly sanctioned for the fraudulent acts of ex-team manager Mike Scott, who failed to register Keats correctly.

However, one blow the Exiles had confirmed yesterday was the news that full back Tom Arscott will leave them for relegation rivals Sale Sharks at the end of the season.

Arscott has been Welsh’s most impressive back, scoring four tries in 23 appearances.

“Tom leaves London Welsh with the blessing of the club – he’s been a good addition to our squad this season,” said head coach Lyn Jones.

“I hope he finds happiness at his new club and we wish him every success in the future.”

Arscott scored Welsh’s maiden Premiership try against Leicester at the Kassam Stadium in September.

He was expected to play a key role in the Exiles’ final five games as they battle to avoid the drop.

Sale director of rugby Steve Diamond said: “He played in both the games against us this season and I was very impressed with him and am sure he will be a great asset to us.”