The 29-year-old was last night found guilty by a Rugby Football Union disciplinary panel of "conduct contrary to good sportsmanship".

A three-man RFU panel made the judgement just before midnight after a lengthy hearing at the Three Tuns Hotel in Durham.

The charge was brought after the Durham City club cited Davies for foul play following an incident in the league game between the clubs at Hollow Drift in March.

City alleged that Davies – who pleaded not guilty – had injured the eye of Durham forward Darren McKinnon in the 23rd minute of their top-of-the-table contest.

An RFU statement said: "A Rugby Football Union disciplinary panel meeting at the Three Tuns Hotel, New Elvet, Durham found West Hartlepool player Andrew Davies guilty of conduct contrary to good sportsmanship under Law 10(4)(k) in that he made contact with the eye or eye area of an opponent during a game at Durham City on March 29.

"He was suspended for 52 weeks from May 7, 2008 until May 6, 2009. He can play again on May 7, 2009.

"The panel hearing the case comprised Antony Davies, Clif Barker and Robin Wannop."

Once the written judgement is received by West, the Brinkburn club can launch an appeal.

Davies was also ordered to pay £100 costs.

West were left reeling by the verdict and coach Tim Sawyer, speaking in the early hours of this morning, explained that the club were unsure as to their next move.

"We're very disappointed with the outcome of the hearing," said Sawyer.

"But it would probably be inappropriate for me to say anything else at this stage.

"We have options to consider and one of those would be our right to appeal.

"We will wait to see the paper work when it comes before we decide what to do.

"But the only thing I really want to say at the moment is that we're very disappointed with the whole thing."

Davies has enjoyed an outstanding season for West and has been one of the key players in their North Two East title triumph.

A product of the club's famed youth system, the lock has played national league rugby for West, as well as representing Durham.