A RUGBY league fan who attacked a rival supporter and left him unconscious has been jailed for a year.

Widnes fan Paul Strong was punched in the face repeatedly by Raymond Cross, who was seen by witnesses dancing like a boxer.

The incident happened after a match when Mr Strong was walking along Chadwick Street, Leigh, with his son, Christopher, and several friends.

Cross singled out Mr Strong after a group of Leigh fans surrounded the Widnes supporters. Cross walked up to him and punched him hard in the face.

Mr Strong was left unconscious and later had to be treated in hospital for a broken nose and fractured cheekbone. Cross, aged 39, of Siddow Common, Leigh, appeared at Bolton Crown Court for sentence. He admitted violent disorder.

Prosecutor Geoff Whelan said the unprovoked attack happened just after the match had ended.

A Leigh fan tried to block the way of another man in the Widnes group and then tried to head-butt him. Mr Strong pushed the man away and was attacked by Cross.

Cross was arrested and said he had drunk five or six pints but was not drunk. A mobile phone found was identified as belonging to Cross.

He admitted walking through the group but said he did not hit anyone.